We asked some of the chefs attending the Austin Food & Wine Festival what they are most looking forward to this weekend and here is what they had to say…

“I am looking most forward to interacting with some of the nation’s best culinary talent.” – David Bull

“Not only am I looking forward to cooking with my peers and colleagues, I am very excited about meeting new chefs and sampling their foods from different regions.” – Philip Speer

“I’m happy to be a part of it. It’s the inaugural festival and there are chefs from all over coming [here], and I’m part of the chefs representing Austin. It’s pretty cool.” – Bryce Gilmore

“I’m looking forward to meeting all the guests chefs and hosting them in our city.” - Paul Qui

“I’m looking forward to being back in Austin, Texas. It is one of my favorite cities!” – Sarah Grueneberg

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity to meet new chefs as well as reconnect with old friends.” – Laura Sawicki

“It’s going to be great to see all of our Austin chefs with their A-game going.” – Rene Ortiz

“I think it’s great for the city that we are finally getting recognized as a culinary destination. I have been to Aspen several times and I am looking forward to experience the festival with an Austin spin on it.” – Jack Gilmore

“I’m looking forward to the Rock your Taco event!” – Tony Mantuano

“I look forward to visiting with people who have never been to Austin.  I always get a kick out of people’s reactions to South Austin.” – James Holmes