San Antonio Announces New Chef Ambassadors to Represent City Through 2027
The City of San Antonio World Heritage Office has officially named six exceptional local chefs as Chef Ambassadors to represent San Antonio as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy from now through 2027.
Chosen through a competitive application process that ran from March 1 to May 31, 2025, the selected chefs will participate in a range of culinary and cultural engagements locally, nationally, and internationally. These include food festivals, media appearances, and events highlighting San Antonio’s dynamic food scene.
The 2025–2027 San Antonio UNESCO Chef Ambassadors:
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Chef Ana Sofia Sada Cervantes, Culinary Institute of America – San Antonio
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Chef Geronimo Lopez, Executive Chef at Hotel Emma
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Chef Jason Dady, Executive Chef/Owner, Jason Dady Restaurant Group
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Chef Joel “Tatu” Herrera, Executive Chef at Desert Spoon & Chef/Owner of Folklore’s Coffee House
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Chef Lizzeth Martinez, Chef/Owner of Naco Grayson
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Chef Stephannie Beyers, Chef/Owner of Eat Chingon
A special recognition ceremony is scheduled for early fall, where these talented culinary leaders will be officially presented as ambassadors.
“We are thrilled to introduce the new cohort of chef ambassadors, who will play a vital role in promoting the vibrant culinary heritage of San Antonio,” said Colleen Swain, Director of the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office. “Their commitment to innovation, community, and tradition embodies the spirit of our city’s gastronomy.”
Celebrating Culinary Diversity and Heritage
The selection committee included members of the San Antonio UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy Advisory Group and City of San Antonio staff. Panelists reviewed applications based on diversity, community engagement, culinary innovation, and alignment with the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy Guiding Principles.
Committee members included Jose Frade, Chef Johnny Hernandez, Chef Elizabeth Johnson, Frank Salinas, and David Gonzalez.
“The overwhelming talent we encountered during the selection process is a testament to the diversity and passion that exists within San Antonio’s culinary scene,” said Chef Elizabeth Johnson, owner of Pharm Table. “I look forward to watching this group share the flavors and stories that make our city truly unique.”
San Antonio and The World Heritage Office
San Antonio earned its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2017 for its rich culinary legacy, which is shaped by its indigenous heritage, Spanish colonial traditions, and the influx of European, African, and Asian immigrants. This rich cultural fusion has given rise to a unique culinary identity that continues to evolve.
As a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, San Antonio collaborates with cities worldwide to promote creativity and cultural innovation as drivers of sustainable urban development.
The World Heritage Office manages this international designation, fostering programs that showcase and support San Antonio’s culinary talent while preserving its historical roots.
Learn More
To explore more about San Antonio’s chef profiles, community events, and culinary initiatives, visit:
👉 UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy
