DIFFA Dallas’ Philanthropic Season Kicks Off With Burgers + Burgundy Signature Event

Dallas’ Celebrity Chefs With Night of Food, Wine & Announcements 

By Cynthia Smoot        Photography by Allison David, Francesca Nelo & Sandra Zamudio

THE SETTING: DIFFA Dallas hosted a truly unforgettable evening showcasing culinary expertise, extraordinary flavors, and profound commitment to changing lives at its 14th Annual Burgers + Burgundy event at The Village Dallas. 

This culinary extravaganza, presented by the renowned Michelin™ Star Chef John Tesar, united a prestigious lineup of celebrity chefs from the heart of Dallas, bringing together passionate foodies, philanthropists, and advocates for a common cause. 

THE VIBE: Each chef showcased their unique spin on the perfect slider, thoughtfully paired with wines to complement. Masterful chefs who participated included: John Tesar – Knife, Rodman Shields – DEA, John Kleifgen – Nick & Sam’s, Shaun Hinson – Toussaint Brasserie, Alda Boiani – 12 Cuts Steak House, Jessica Cortes – Hamburger Mary’s, Nick Walker – Meridian, Matthew Zita – Neiman Marcus, Jay Valley – Saint Rocco’s and Jacob Williamson – The Saint.

The 2023 Style Council Chair Steve Lopez then took to the stage to announce the select group of social, civil, and business leaders that make up the DIFFA Dallas Style Council. The crowd then

turned their attention to the screens to watch a promo video revealing the 2024 House of DIFFA theme, House of DIFFA: Royalty Untamed.

THE NON-PROFIT: Burgers + Burgundy is the kick-off to DIFFA Dallas’ fundraising season, which continues with their Holiday Wreath Collection on Thursday, November 16, and culminates with their annual gala, House of DIFFA in the spring. 

We love that DIFFA is one of the largest and most successful fundraising organizations for HIV/AIDS non-profit service providers and education programs within Texas, New York, California, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Massachusetts, and Washington. DIFFA is the only HIV/AIDS organization in Texas that provides non-earmarked funding exclusively to HIV/AIDS service efforts in our communities, thus providing direct care for persons living with HIV/AIDS. Dallas is DIFFA’s largest chapter by the funds raised. The unique design-focused events DIFFA Dallas holds include Burgers and Burgundy, DIFFA Wreath Celebration, and House of DIFFA.