Guam’s vibrant culinary scene takes center stage once again as Maila’ Ta Fan Chesa returns on Thursday, August 27, 2026, bringing together some of the island’s most talented chefs for an unforgettable evening celebrating Guam’s local flavors, agriculture, and culinary creativity.

 

The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

 

Recognized as Guam’s premier culinary event, Maila’ Ta Fan Chesa showcases the connection between local farmers, fishermen, food producers, and chefs through innovative dishes crafted with ingredients grown and harvested on Guam. Guests will experience a unique farm-to-table culinary journey while celebrating the island’s rich agricultural heritage and the people who make it possible.

 

This year’s event will feature an exceptional lineup of local chefs, each creating signature dishes inspired by Guam’s fresh produce, locally sourced seafood, and island-grown ingredients. The evening highlights the importance of supporting Guam’s agricultural community while demonstrating the incredible diversity and quality of locally produced food and will benefit the capacity building and student development programs of the Micronesia Chefs’ Association (MCA) and the American Culinary Federation Guam Chapter (ACF Guam).

 

“Maila’ Ta Fan Chesa is more than a culinary event—it’s a celebration of Guam’s food system, our local producers, and the creativity of our chefs,” said MCA president Peter Duenas. “Every dish tells the story of our island and the partnerships that help strengthen food security and sustainability throughout our community.”

 

The event is made possible through the collaboration of numerous community partners committed to advancing local agriculture, culinary education, and sustainable food systems, including the Micronesian Chefs’ Association, American Culinary Federation Guam Chapter, University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, Guam Community College, University of Guam Land Grant Extension Service, and Farmer Focus.

 

Guests can look forward to an evening filled with exceptional cuisine, community connection, and a celebration of Guam’s unique food culture.

 

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant aquaculture specialists will also be on hand to discuss aquaponics on Guam and the Community Backyard Aquaponics Systems program.  They will also be giving away a free aquaponics setup to a lucky winner. Aquacultured tilapia will also be featured on this year’s proteins list for competitors. 

 

“Last year’s event was an amazing night of fun and delicious out-of-this-world food,” said Marsha Cruz who attended last year’s event. “Seeing local chefs make magic with local ingredients and teach the kids at the same time, it gave me a great sense of pride for our people. I am excited about this year!”

 

Tickets are available now for eighty-five dollars at Meskla, Tools of the Trade, IDI, and through all MCA members and includes entry, unlimited servings of all dishes, votes for competitions and special showcase offerings from sponsors.