Southern Smoke Festival 2026 Tickets Are On Sale Now

Join us for an unforgettable experience of incredible food, drinks, and community on Saturday, October 3. This year, almost 100 celebrated chefs, beverage professionals, and hospitality visionaries will come together for an afternoon of world-class bites, libations, live music, immersive experiences, and more, all to raise critical funds for emergency relief and mental health support for food and beverage workers nationwide.

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Chef Image
San Antonio, TX /
Mixtli
WHERE WILL I BE COOKING:

Growing up on the border has given this El Paso born Chef a unique perspective that has help shape her culinary career. Since 2015, Chef Melissa has made herself an integral part of the culinary scene in San Antonio. As a senior team member of the critically acclaimed and nationally lauded Mixtli, Melissa continues to dive into the history of Mexican cuisine while refining her skills as a chef and a leader. In 2022 Chef Melissa joined the elite  ranks of expat chefs that make up FamilyMEAL. The group highlights and magnifies the unique cuisine of her border town. While raising money and awareness for migrant families and children.