DC Central Kitchen’s Capital Food Fight returns to The Anthem on Thursday, November 12, with Taquería Xochi among the local restaurants serving tasting bites for the cause.
A DC Institution Now Two Decades Strong
Founded in 2004 by José Andrés, Capital Food Fight has grown into what DC Central Kitchen calls the city’s baddest night of doing good, pitting four local chefs against each other in a live, secret ingredient cooking battle judged by well known names in food.
Guests sample dishes from dozens of area restaurants while watching the competition, with all proceeds supporting DC Central Kitchen’s culinary job training and hunger relief programs across the District. Tyson Foods returns as the 2026 presenting sponsor, following its role in last year’s event.
The event has raised more than $12 million for DC Central Kitchen since it began, and last year’s edition drew roughly 1,300 guests and more than 75 participating restaurants.
A Rare Chance To Sample DC’s Restaurant Scene In One Room
For visitors and longtime residents alike, Capital Food Fight offers a shortcut through the DC dining scene, with dozens of kitchens represented under one roof over the course of a single evening. It draws a crowd dressed for a night out rather than a food festival, and the stage show built around the chef competition adds a layer of entertainment beyond the tasting tables.
Capital Food Fight takes place at The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW. General admission tickets have historically started around $350, with VIP packages priced higher. Tickets and event details are available at capitalfoodfight.org.
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