Two of Michigan's most compelling culinary talents share the kitchen for an extraordinary midday experience during Traverse City Food & Wine. Guest chef Omar Anani joins Amical Executive Chef Ben Hoxie for a collaborative lunch that brings together two distinct culinary worlds for a one-of-a-kind tasting experience in the heart of downtown Traverse City.
A Palestinian-Egyptian American chef and two-time James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef – Great Lakes, Anani is the force behind Saffron De Twah, Detroit's acclaimed modern Moroccan bistro — a kitchen known for weaving bold spices, deep cultural storytelling, and global influences into every dish. He joins forces with Ben Hoxie, the creative engine behind Amical, Traverse City's beloved downtown bistro, where more than three decades of global culinary exploration have shaped a menu rooted in creativity, fresh local ingredients, and warm hospitality. Together, the two chefs have crafted a 4-course tasting menu that draws on both of their culinary voices — Anani's vibrant, spice-forward sensibility meeting Hoxie's refined, locally-grounded approach — showcasing the bold bites and chef-crafted dishes that celebrate the extraordinary bounty of northern Michigan's farms, orchards, and waters. This is a lunch not to be missed.
Individual ticket includes one seat at a shared communal table, bringing together fellow Traverse City Food & Wine guests for a lively, social dining experience.