A Strong Start to the Year of the Fire Horse.

Six weeks into 2026, Golf Kitchen is already moving with purpose and energy. After a challenging 2025, this Year of the Fire Horse—officially beginning February 17 (China time)—arrives with renewed clarity and a powerful forward stride.

Evolving the Magazine & Expanding Our Editorial Team

Last year, I restructured the magazine and welcomed a group of regular feature writers who share a unified vision for Golf Kitchen's future. Thank you to Hannah Flora, Vincent Tracy, Javier Burgos, Matthew Gilbert, and Fernando Silva for your dedication and creative partnership. Together, we're shaping something truly special.

Burke's Celebrity Chef Showdown: A New Tradition Begins.

In September 2025, we launched the inaugural Burke's Celebrity Chef Showdown (originally Beat Burke) at Montammy Golf Club. The event was a tremendous success. This April, the first official Burke's Celebrity Chef Showdown will take place at Medinah Country Club. Culinary Director Matthew Gilbert and Chef David Burke are already collaborating on menus for both the dinner and the live competition—a member/guest evening that promises unforgettable food, fun, and memories.

Deepening Industry Engagement.

This past year, I joined the Metropolitan Golf Writers Association and am now working with Hank Gola, Robin Sauerhaft, and the dinner committee for my second year.

Our First Article with the National Club Association.

I joined the National Club Association and co‑authored my first industry article for Club Director with Culinary Director Matthew Gilbert of Medinah Country Club. The piece explores how private clubs can become the next generation of culinary incubators. My sincere thanks to NCA and Medinah CC for their support of Golf Kitchen and of me personally. To read our article, please see the latest edition of Club Director https://nationalclub.org/page/club-director/
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A Surprise Spotlight from BoardRoom Magazine.

A special thank‑you to Heather at BoardRoom Magazine for sending the latest issue, where I was delighted to find an article highlighting the first Burke's Celebrity Chef Showdown at Montammy. Gratitude to Montammy GC, Culinary Director Maxwell Shteyman, and GM Greg Devino for collaborating with Heather and celebrating the event.

Addressing Mental Health in the Culinary World.

Mental health has long been a pressing issue in our industry. Having navigated my own challenges—and after traveling to 48 countries and clubs, hosting both successful and unsuccessful events, and speaking with chefs nationwide—I finally dared to publish two major articles on the topic: one from a GM's perspective and one from a Chef's. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. It proves that we can address difficult topics with honesty, compassion, and without morbidity.

A Fresh Look for "The Club Wine Review." 

I recently overhauled the design of Fernando Silva's "The Club Wine Review," giving it a more modern, spacious, and elegant feel. Thank you, Fernando, for your continued dedication to this feature.

Continuing Our Focus on Wellness & Philanthropy.

In 2026, Golf Kitchen will continue to spotlight health, wellness, and charitable initiatives supported by private clubs—an area of the industry that deserves far more recognition.

An Honor from Distinguished Clubs.

​Last week, I announced that I would attend the CMAA World Conference in Anaheim, and shortly after, I was notified by Distinguished Clubs and BoardRoom Magazine that I was selected to serve on the Distinguished Clubs Standards Advisory Committee for 2026–2028- a dream achievement for Golf Kitchen. Thank you to John Fornaro and the entire team for this incredible honor. I look forward to contributing meaningful insights.

More to Come

Expect updates every six weeks—Golf Kitchen is galloping forward in this fiery, fast‑moving Year of the Horse, and I'm excited to bring you along for the ride.

*** Special thanks to Mr. Frank's Kitchen, Texturas, Chef's Warehouse, Perlage, and Tasty Duck for your continued support.

In our upcoming issue, Golf Kitchen highlights an essential conversation transforming kitchens and rethinking leadership in restaurants and private clubs. We're excited to feature Chef Hannah Flora and Vincent J.C. Tracy, CCM, CCE, Board‑Certified Mental Health Coach, two advocates at the forefront of this vital discussion on culinary culture and wellbeing.

Savoring Serenity: Chef Hannah Flora on Mental Health as the Key Ingredient

Chef Hannah Flora calls for a shift away from the exhausting grind of the culinary world. She emphasizes that prioritizing mental health and wellbeing is critical for the future of food.

​Chef Flora addresses:

• Transitioning from fear-based leadership to compassionate guidance 
• The importance of work-life balance
•  Hidden mental health challenges in hospitality 
• The need for inclusive cultures and healthy boundaries.

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Chef Flora is a rising voice advocating for change in the industry.

​Immediate Release: Stamford, Connecticut, January 20, 2026: On Friday, April 24, following last year's unforgettable debut at Montammy Golf Club in Alpine, New Jersey, Burke's Celebrity Chef Showdown is set to take place at Medinah Country Club, Medinah, Illinois. This event will bring together two culinary powerhouses for an evening filled with creativity, competition, and extraordinary dining.

This year's showdown features Matthew Gilbert, Culinary Director and Executive Chef at Medinah Country Club. Chef Gilbert is celebrated for his refined, international techniques and inventive flavor profiles. As a leader in elevating Medinah's culinary program, he is ready to defend his title on home turf. His cooking style blends precision with playfulness, making him a perfect contender for this high-energy culinary duel. Celebrity Chef David Burke, Award-Winning Chef, Restaurateur, and Culinary Icon, returns to the competition with his signature boldness, artistry, and flair. A pioneer of modern American cuisine, he is known for his unmatched creativity and showmanship, ensuring a night filled with surprises and unforgettable dishes.

What Can Members and Guests Expect?

A dynamic, head-to-head culinary showdown for both members and guests, including:

• A glamorous cocktail hour followed by a multi-course dinner crafted by both chefs, complete with wine and beverage pairings

• Behind-the-scenes storytelling and live commentary

• Exclusive dishes available only at this event

• A spirited celebration of culinary excellence at one of America's most iconic clubs

Why Members and Guests Won't Want to Miss It?

Last year's inaugural event was a hit, leaving guests buzzing for months. This rematch promises even more excitement, innovation, and the friendly rivalry that made the first showdown a standout success.

Medinah sets the stage for a one-of-a-kind evening where tradition meets creativity, and two extraordinary chefs push each other to new heights.

Media contact:
[email protected]  
​

This February, Golf Kitchen is kicking off 2026 with a celebration of culinary artistry, personal wellbeing, and the remarkable generosity that shines within the private club community. Golf holds the distinction of being the most charitable sport in the United States, and this issue pays tribute to that legacy.

Throughout the year, we're excited to highlight inspiring charitable initiatives in each edition, further strengthening the core values that make our industry truly exceptional. Join us in this journey of giving and excellence!

Cover Story: Michael Mignano — From Iconic Kitchens to Club Excellence

Our cover feature highlights the remarkable path of Chef Michael Mignano, whose career spans iconic kitchens such as Bouley, Aureole, and the Pierre Hotel. It culminates in his current role at Wee Burn Country Club in Darien, Connecticut.

This story explores:

• Chef Mignano's evolution from pastry chef to executive chef
• The discipline and artistry shaped by New York's fine‑dining world
• His transition into the private club industry
• A leadership philosophy rooted in wellness, mentorship, and community

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Chef Mignano's journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of culinary craft to shape culture.

Charity Spotlights: Stories That Inspire

This edition features two powerful stories of generosity and community impact:

David's Treasure Chest

With insights from Chef Jeff Perez of Fairview Country Club, this feature honors a beloved Stamford Hospital initiative that brings comfort and joy to children spending the night in the hospital. The Connecticut club community continues to keep David's spirit alive through compassion and commitment.

POTS (Part of the Solution)

Through an interview with Chef John Krall of Manursing Island Club, we explore the decade‑long partnership between Westchester Club Chefs and POTS. This program has raised nearly half a million dollars to support families facing food insecurity. This story captures the camaraderie, resilience, and purpose that define this annual event.

Industry Leadership: A Conversation with Jason Kycek

We sit down with Jason Kycek, Chief Marketing Officer at Casa de Campo Resorts and Villas, for an insightful discussion on hospitality innovation, global brand strategy, and the evolving expectations of luxury travelers.

Regular Columns & Editorial Features

The Winter 2026 edition includes contributions from our distinguished feature writers:

• The Club Wine Review by Fernando Silva
• Embrace the Art of Flavor by Hannah Flora
• The Industry Darkhorse Blog by Matthew Gilbert
• Excellence and Health by Vincent Tracy
• Veggy Cocktails by Javier Burgos

Plus: new recipes, culinary inspiration, and stories that celebrate the people who elevate our industry every day.

A Celebration of Purpose, Wellness, and Community

The Spirit of Wellness & Philanthropy Edition invites readers to reflect on the deeper values that shape the private club world — caring for our teams, nourishing our communities, honoring legacy, and building a culture where excellence and empathy thrive side by side.

This Winter 2026 issue is more than a magazine. It is a tribute to the generosity, creativity, and leadership that define our industry.

​Stamford, CT – October 2nd – Montammy Golf Club and Golf Kitchen Magazine hosted an unforgettable evening on September 25th as two culinary powerhouses went head-to-head in a Celebrity Chef Battle that had members and guests on the edge of their seats.

In a spirited competition filled with creativity, flavor, fun, and flair, Chef Maxwell Shteyman, Executive Chef of Montammy Golf Club, emerged victorious.

The event brought together the best of Montammy's garden-to-table philosophy with the artistry of two chefs known for pushing culinary boundaries. Guests enjoyed a front-row seat to the action as both chefs prepared signature dishes under timed conditions, showcasing their unique styles and techniques.

Secret ingredients included: Scallops, Fennel, Delicata Squash, Cornbread, Szechuan Peppercorns, and Grape Soda.
The evening's judges were Steven El Hassan, O'Bagel & Mile Square in Hoboken and Beyond, Marie Wolpert, and Joann Erlich.

"Participating in the Beat Burke Culinary Competition was not only an incredible showcase of our team's talent and creativity, but also a celebration that brought our members and staff together in a way that highlighted the true spirit of hospitality—sharing joy, passion, and unforgettable experiences," stated Chef Shteyman.

Celebrity Chef David Burke, known internationally for his inventive approach to modern American cuisine, congratulated Chef Shteyman on the win, praising the camaraderie and energy of the evening.

"Just like a great round of golf, the perfect dish is all about balance and execution. It was both an honor and a pleasure to bring that same energy to our Beat Burke competition against Chef Max. This series is about creating an unforgettable guest experience on and off the course—and kicking it off at Montammy was wonderful. Congratulations to Chef Max and his entire kitchen team," said David Burke.

The Celebrity Chef Battle was part of Montammy Golf Club's ongoing commitment to celebrating culinary excellence and creating memorable experiences for its members. The event also highlighted the club’s commitment to promoting local talent and enhancing the role of chefs within the private club industry.

Interviews with Max and David, along with recipes from the event, will appear in our Fall Edition, available in November.

About Montammy Golf Club:
Nestled in the rolling hills of Alpine, New Jersey, Montammy Golf Club is a premier private club offering world-class golf, dining, and social experiences. With a strong emphasis on culinary innovation, Montammy consistently sets the standard for excellence in the private club community.

About David Burke:
Fueled by passion, grit, and a knack for artful innovation, David Burke is one of the most renowned and respected chefs in modern American cuisine. With his signature whimsical, boundlessly creative approach to food. In addition to being an internationally celebrated chef, Burke is a restaurateur, artist, philanthropist, businessperson, author, educator, art collector, puppeteer, minister, doctor of business administration, honoris causa, and beekeeper. Known for his industry insight, culinary accomplishments, business acumen, and candid observations, Burke is a frequent contributor to major news sources, including ABC TV, Forbes, Fox TV, Bloomberg, and others. He is also frequently called upon to play the role of event honoree, speaker, and judge. In the parlance of today's celebrity-driven culture, he is a rock star of the culinary world.
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About Golf Kitchen:
Golf Kitchen, founded by Diana DeLucia, is an innovative media platform and publishing brand dedicated to showcasing the culinary excellence of private golf and country clubs. With a background in food photography, writing, and publishing, Diana recognized a unique opportunity to bridge the worlds of fine dining and golf, elevating the chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and hospitality teams who bring these exclusive experiences to life.  ​

More than 120 Culinary Icons, Restaurateurs, Athletes, and Celebrities Join City Harvest to Combat Record High Levels of Food Insecurity in NYC for the 6th Annual Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf & Tennis Tournament Scheduled for October 6th. Golf Legend Annika Sörenstam leads the effort with Special Guests Paige Spiranac and Patrick McEnroe, Chefs and Restaurateurs Kwame Onwuachi, Simon Kim, David Shim, Kerry Heffernan, and many more.

NEW YORK, NY (September 11, 2025) – In response to the unprecedented need in New York City, over 100 celebrity chefs, restaurateurs, and athletes are coming together to raise vital funds for City Harvest, the city's first and largest food rescue organization. Herb Karlitz, renowned event producer and philanthropist, announced today that the 6th annual Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf & Tennis Tournament will take place on Monday, October 6th, 2025, at the prestigious Montclair Golf Club (25th Prospect Ave, West Orange, NJ).

From Rao’s to Razza and Cote Steak and CC Sabathia, the Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf & Tennis Tournament impacts the lives of New Yorkers, ensuring they have access to free, nutritious food, at a time when visits to NYC food pantries and soup kitchens are at a record high. Since its inception in 2019, the Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf & Tennis Tournament has raised enough to help City Harvest provide more than 3.75 million meals to New Yorkers in need.

Hosted by the best female golfer of all time, Annika Sörenstam, and featuring special guest Patrick McEnroe, President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the star-studded event, founded by Karlitz & Company, will feature an exciting lineup of culinary icons, including Kwame Onwuachi (Tatiana), Michael Anthony (Gramercy Tavern), David Shim & Simon Kim (Cote), Dino Gatto (Rao’s), Adam Goldberg (PopUp Bagels), Helen Nguyen (Saigon Social), Franklin Becker (Point Seven), Max Shteyman (Montammy Golf Club), Kwame Onwuachi (Montclair Golf Club), Alex Lee (Liberty National Golf Club), and Yohan Jeon (Alpine Country Club).
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Joining them will be Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee CC Sabathia, new NY Knicks draft Jordan Clarkson, two-time Super Bowl Champion Justin Tuck, and more, adding a unique sportsmanship element to the tournament. This year's event will feature a stellar line-up of certified sommeliers, pouring some of the finest champagnes and cult wines from around the world.​

The International Tennis Hall of Fame has joined this important effort to help promote the tennis component of the experience. Patrick McEnroe, President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, former professional player, commentator, and former captain of the U.S. Davis Cup team, said. "I am happy to help the Celebrity Chefs & Friends event and its vital mission of feeding those in need, while also connecting with a dynamic audience of tennis enthusiasts."

“The Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf and Tennis Tournament is instrumental in supporting our mission to rescue high-quality, nutritious food that would otherwise go to waste and deliver it, for free, to our neighbors in need,” said Jilly Stephens, City Harvest’s Chief Executive Officer. “This tournament comes at a critical time. The need for food assistance in New York City is at a record high, and historic cuts to Federal food assistance programs will soon have a devastating impact on New Yorkers already struggling to make ends meet. This event helps ensure that families across the city have access to the fresh, nutritious foods they need to thrive.”

This “tournament” has been described as a food and wine festival that happens to take place at a golf club. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with their favorite chefs and athletes during the golf, tennis and pickleball tournaments, as well as enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by some of the city's finest culinary talents.

All proceeds from the Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf and Tennis Tournament will directly benefit City Harvest's efforts to rescue and deliver nutritious food to New Yorkers in need for free. With every dollar raised, City Harvest can provide food for two of our neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

"We are thrilled to bring together such an extraordinary group of talent for a cause that is close to our hearts," said Herb Karlitz, founder of the Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf and Tennis Tournament. "Chefs are the heartbeat of our communities, and their generosity knows no bounds. Their giving nature extends beyond the kitchen, as they selflessly support causes like City Harvest, in the hopes that no New Yorker goes hungry. It's an honor to witness their unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of
others."

Key sponsors include Ernst & Young, LLP (EY), Resy, Meat & Livestock Australia, Porsche Englewood, Acqua Panna®, S.Pellegrino®, Afficionado Coffee Roasters, The Long Drink, Resorts World, Ten To One Rum, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Urbani Truffles. In-kind sponsors include Prime Food Distributors, Greg Norman Collection, Stretch Recovery Lounge, Acme Smoked Fish, Black Diamond Caviar, Burlap & Barrel Single Origin Spices, Glasvin, Impossible Foods, Schweid & Sons, Angel’s Envy, Selections Pas Mal, Sake Ono, Seraphim Social Beverage, The Good Charcoal Company, and Wine Chips.

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About City Harvest:
City Harvest is New York City’s first and largest food rescue organization. We rescue nutritious, high-quality food that would otherwise go to waste and deliver it for free to hundreds of food pantries, soup kitchens, community partners, and our own Mobile Markets® across the five boroughs. In response to the urgent and ongoing demand for food assistance and a commitment to sustainability, this year we will rescue more than 86 million pounds of food and deliver it to New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity. With deep connections to the communities where we work and with a focus on localized investment, City Harvest is dedicated to strengthening our network of agency partners and the local food system through capacity building, advocacy, and nutrition education. Through our food rescue model, we support environmental health—this year, we will prevent the equivalent of more than 25 million kilograms of CO2 from entering the atmosphere—while providing New Yorkers with the food they need to thrive. City Harvest is recognized as a leading equity-driven organization and has been named one of America's Top 100 Charities by Forbes. Since our founding in 1982, we have rescued more than one billion pounds of food and provided it for free to our neighbors in need. To learn more, visit cityharvest.org.

About Karlitz & Company:
Event Producer, Karlitz & Company (KCO), for more than 35 years, has been an industry leader in designing memorable experiences that enable its clients to engage with their clients and customers. KCO prides themselves on taking simple concepts and designing something memorable. Whether through culinary and wine-focused experiences, music festivals, sports, or destination events, KCO leverages the lifestyle verticals that work best for each client. To learn more, please visit karlitz.com.

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Event Facts:
Name: 6th Annual Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf and Tennis Tournament Benefiting City Harvest
Benefit: City Harvest, cityharvest.org/golf (@cityharvestnyc)
Executive Producer: Karlitz & Company (karlitz.com)
Website: https://karlitz.com/tournament
Date: Monday, October 6th, 2025

Schedule:
Golf: Montclair Golf Club
25 Prospect Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052
https://www.montclairgolfclub.org/
9:30 AM - Registration & Brunch
11:00 AM - Remarks & Event Photo
12:00 PM - Shotgun Start; 18-hole round of golf featuring celebrity
chef menu items, cocktails, and additional surprises along the way
5:30 PM - Walk-Around Tasting Reception, featuring celebrity chef
menu items, cocktails, wine, and more

Tennis: Montclair Golf Club:
25 Prospect Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052
https://www.montclairgolfclub.org/
12:30 PM - Registration and Celebrity Chef Light Bites
1:00 PM - Warm-up and Drills
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM - Tennis Tournament
5:30 PM - Walk-Around Tasting Reception

Founder: Herb Karlitz (@karlitz_co)
Executive Producer: Karlitz & Company (karlitz.com)
Golf Host: Annika Sörenstam (@annikas59)
Golf Chair: Kwame Onwuachi (@chefkwameonwuachi)
Golf Special Guest: Paige Spiranac (_paige.renee)
Tennis Special Guest: Patrick McEnroe (Patrick.mcenroe)
Tennis Chairs: Kerry Heffernan (@kheffernan212)
Simon Kim (@simonkimnyc)
David Shim(@chefdavidshim)
Culinary Chair: Alex Lee (@chef_alexlee)

​THINC Tank Media Network, in collaboration with Chef Keller and The Hospitality Industry Network for Creativity, Collaboration, and Change, is excited to announce the launch of “The Keller Chronicles” podcast. This new series will air on “The Hospitality Nexus,” a global platform dedicated to elevating conversations in the hospitality sector.  

“Cook with Your Heart” transcends traditional cooking narratives, focusing on the importance of passion, integrity, and community engagement within the hospitality industry. The podcast aims to explore what it truly means to lead with the heart, emphasizing the principles of doing the right things right and giving back to local and global communities.  

The inspiration for the podcast stems from a personal experience in 2016, where a dish ordered at a well-known restaurant in the DC Metro left a lasting impression. Chef Keller remarked, “Looks like a robot cooked it,” prompting him to promote the mantra “Cook with your Heart.” Through this, he aims to teach others that genuine care, a positive attitude, and personal investment can significantly enhance the dining experience.  

Listeners can expect captivating stories and insights from hospitality professionals across the USA and Canada. Each episode will delve into topics surrounding current operations in the industry, while also fostering discussions on shaping the future of hospitality.  

With a wealth of culinary stories spanning over 50 years, the podcast promises to engage listeners through laughter, tears, and surprising revelations. “Never a dull moment” is not just a motto; it’s a guarantee, and listeners should prepare for unexpected moments that may raise eyebrows.  

Join us this September for an exciting new journey into the heart of hospitality. Together, we can inspire, learn, and grow as we “Cook with Your Heart.”  

About: THINC³ Tank Media Network 
 
Hospitality Internships Evolves into The Hospitality Nexus™ and Launches THINC³ Tank Media: A New Era of Connection, Innovation, and Storytelling Begins

Hospitality Internships - the pioneering platform that has helped thousands of students connect with real-world experience - is officially evolving into something far bigger. Starting in September, Hospitality Internships will be housed within The Hospitality Nexus™, a global platform dedicated to connecting students, talent, educators, and employers through purpose-aligned experiences and transformative tools. As part of this relaunch, the organization will introduce a powerful new media division: THINC³, short for The Hospitality Industry Network for Creativity, Collaboration, and Change.

THINC³ Tank Media will serve as the storytelling and influence engine for the Nexus, offering thought leadership, mentorship spotlights, and more than 30 original podcasts. These productions will live on the platform’s Global Stage, each with its own dedicated space for listener interaction, behind-the-scenes content, and deeper engagement. From student-led shows to global trend spotlights, the THINC³ Tank lineup aims to reshape how the industry learns, connects, and grows.

 Among the network’s flagship productions is - The Keller Chronicles: Cook with Your Heart - hosted by award-winning chef, industry mentor, and leadership visionary Chef Duane Keller. This isn’t just a podcast about food. It’s about doing the right things right. It’s about community, purpose-driven leadership, and living with humility and heart. Whether you’re in chef whites or a suit and tie, The Keller Chronicles will challenge listeners to lead, live, and cook with authenticity and passion.

The full platform relaunch is set for September 2025. Until then, inquiries can be directed to Timothy Flohr at 
[email protected], and updates are available on LinkedIn at Hospitality Internships. The future of hospitality isn’t just about what’s next—it’s about who’s building it. And Hospitality Internships is proud to lead the way.