History 

It all started when…

Taste of Mardi Gras was born in 2005 during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, one of the most devastating natural disasters in American history. Lives were lost, neighborhoods destroyed, and the need for food, shelter and clothing were tremendous. Americans from every corner of the country came together, providing desperately needed help and hope to their neighbors in need. That help came from as far away as Alaska, where more than 350 Alaska Red Cross volunteers were deployed to the devastated Gulf Coast, and Alaskans donated more than $1 million to assist with the massive relief effort.

Honoring the rich tradition of Cajun style cuisine, several of Alaska’s top chefs came together to throw a party, New Orleans-style, to help their southern neighbors. In the course of just a few weeks, a fantastic party was planned featuring exquisite cuisine from more than 10 of Alaska’s celebrity chefs, traditional Cajun music, and amazing auction items — raising more than $80,000 to support relief efforts.

The tradition of caring continues today, with our dedicated restaurant community coming together to prepare a New Orleans style feast — with all proceeds staying here in Alaska to support local disaster relief.

We invite you to join us in this trademark event that celebrates the power of community coming together to help those in need.  Together, we can save lives.