November 2026 President’s Message | ACF Epicurean Club of Boston
Epicurean Club of Boston President’s Message
By Tim Foley, HAAC, President, ACF Epicurean Club of Boston
November 1, 2026
Welcome to November and the start of the holiday season!
I love this time of year! However, I also understand that the holiday season can be a difficult time for others. Now, more than ever, it is important to be aware of our family, friends, and those around us who may need a little extra support.
The next two months will be very busy, both personally and club-wise, for all of us.
The Epicurean Club of Boston, the oldest chefs club in America, takes great pride in supporting those in need. Over the next couple of months, we will have several opportunities to volunteer at a variety of charitable events. We are always looking for helping hands in many different positions, so please don’t hesitate to get involved.
Your time, talent, and generosity make a difference. Thank you!
Upcoming Meetings, Celebrations & Volunteer Opportunities
I’m looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our upcoming events.
November 1 — The 134th Presidents Gala
Location:
The Weston Country Club
275 Meadowbrook Road
Weston, MA
Time:
6:00 p.m.
Our featured chef is Chef Thomas Downey and his culinary team. We’re looking forward to an evening of fine dining and awards. Please join us for a night of celebration with colleagues and friends.
November 10 — Our 2nd Annual Chefs Feeding Veterans
Location:
AMVETS of Natick
79 Superior Drive
Natick, MA
Time:
4:00 p.m.
This is our second year thanking our veterans for their service. We consider it an honor to provide a special celebratory meal for these great people.
Under the leadership of Chef Jimmy DiMarzio, Chef John DiSessa, Chef Jimmy Boyd, and myself, in association with Les Dames d’Escoffier of Boston and our team of volunteers, we look forward to graciously thanking our brave veterans and their families for their unwavering service to our country.
If you are interested in volunteering, we’d love to have you join us. Please reach out to me directly if you’d like to participate in any way. All are welcome!
November 16 — Boston Children’s Hospital Smash Burger Showdown
Location:
Boston Children’s Hospital
300 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA
Time:
5:00 p.m.
Join us for a fun and exciting Smash Burger Showdown featuring the talented chefs of Boston Children’s Hospital’s culinary staff, coached by Chef Tim Foley and Chef Ken Watts, R.I. chapter presidents.
This event will showcase a new chef’s playground for the children and the power of food with purpose.
Free parking is available.
November 25 — My Brother’s Table Thanksgiving Meal Preparation
Location:
My Brother’s Table
98 Willow Street
Lynn, MA
Time:
10:00 a.m.
Please join us as we participate in Chef John DiSessa’s annual Thanksgiving dinner preparation for individuals experiencing homelessness. This is an amazing charity event the Epicurean Club of Boston is fortunate to be a part of.
If you’d like to join us and help those in need, please reach out to me. You won’t regret being part of this rewarding experience!
December 21 — Annual Holiday Gift Drive
Location:
Pearl Street Station
53 Summer Street
Malden, MA
Our annual holiday gift drive campaign will support toys for children in need and backpacks for the unhoused. Let’s help make the holidays brighter for those who need it most!
December 23 — My Brother’s Table Holiday Meal Preparation
Location:
My Brother’s Table
98 Willow Street
Lynn, MA
Time:
10:00 a.m.
Our annual holiday meal preparation in support of feeding the unhoused.
More details about our December events will be shared as they become available.
A Special Thank You to Our Purveyors
Thank you for your unwavering support of the Epicurean Club of Boston. We appreciate your dedication to our profession and ongoing encouragement to our young culinarians.
To our members, please remember and take care of our sponsor friends.
November Highlights
Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, American Indian Heritage Month, American Diabetes Awareness Month, and the end of daylight saving time.
Seasonal Foods to Enjoy in November
Apples
Pears
Grapes
Figs
Pomegranates
Melons
Winter squash
Pumpkins
Root vegetables
Kale
Sweet potatoes
Walnuts
Final Thoughts from Your President
Remember, don’t sweat the small stuff.
Be the chef you have always dreamed about becoming. Continue learning, sharing, mentoring, giving back, and making a difference in our profession and our communities.
The holidays are about more than food and celebration. They are about family, friendship, generosity, and helping those who need us most.
I look forward to seeing everyone at our upcoming events.
Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for all you do for the Epicurean Club of Boston!
Sincerely,
Tim Foley, HAAC
President, ACF Epicurean Club of Boston
