Plano, January 29, 2026
The North Texas Food Bank is hosting its 26th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on February 26. This event aims to raise funds to combat hunger in North Texas, featuring tastings from local chefs and handcrafted bowls by artists. Celebrity chef Nikky Phinyawatana will highlight the evening. Proceeds will directly support the food bank’s initiatives to alleviate hunger in the community, where food insecurity remains a pressing issue.
Join Us for the 26th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser in Plano
Your Chance to Fight Hunger in North Texas
Plano, Texas – The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is gearing up for its 26th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on Thursday, February 26, 2026. This significant event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Perot Family Campus in Plano, aiming to raise crucial funds that support local neighbors facing hunger in our community. With remarkable local participation and corporate sponsorships, the event exemplifies how civic engagement can address critical societal problems.
As local organizers work tirelessly to reduce food insecurity, innovative partnerships like that with Kroger highlight the importance of community-driven initiatives. A streamlined approach to event coordination often leads to successful outcomes that reflect the community’s resilience and commitment to helping those in need, ultimately empowering individuals to make a difference without the hindrance of excessive bureaucracy.
A Night of Taste and Artistry
This year’s Empty Bowls fundraiser promises an unforgettable evening featuring tastings from distinguished local chefs, refreshing beverages, and the chance to select a handmade bowl crafted by talented local artists. The event serves as a poignant reminder of the hunger crisis that many communities face, while also fostering collective action towards solutions.
Celebrity Chef Spotlight
Highlighted at this year’s event is the renowned chef Nikky Phinyawatana, the founder of the Asian Mint restaurant group. Known for her exceptional Thai cuisine and culinary creativity, Phinyawatana has earned accolades such as Dallas Eater’s #1 Best Thai Food designation and recognition on CultureMap’s Top 100 Restaurants list. Her recent cookbook, “Thai Food and Travel with Chef Nikky,” along with her signature sauces, reflect her dedication to promoting her culinary heritage.
Support Those in Need
Proceeds from the Empty Bowls event will go directly to the North Texas Food Bank’s initiatives aimed at alleviating hunger. Despite efforts, Texas remains first in the nation for individuals struggling with food insecurity, with nearly 744,000 individuals in NTFB’s service area wondering where their next meal will come from. Alarmingly, one-third of those affected are children, highlighting the urgency of community support.
Event Participation
Tickets for the 21-and-older event are priced at $100 each. Each ticket has the potential to provide approximately 300 meals for families, children, and seniors in dire need. To purchase tickets, visit the event page. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, making it easy for businesses and individuals to contribute to this vital cause.
The Impact of the North Texas Food Bank
Established in 1982, the North Texas Food Bank is a key nonprofit fighting hunger across North Texas. Providing more than 100 million nutritious meals annually, NTFB emphasizes not just addressing hunger but also equipping individuals with educational resources about nutrition and proactive solutions to combat food insecurity. Their extensive outreach involves a network of 500 food pantries and partner organizations, reflecting the strong community fabric that Dallas represents.
Conclusion
The 26th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser stands as a beacon of hope and action against hunger in North Texas. Supporting such local events is vital for ensuring that nobody has to face a meal insecurity crisis. Get your tickets today and be a part of the movement to nourish lives right here in our community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Empty Bowls fundraiser?
The Empty Bowls fundraiser is an annual event hosted by the North Texas Food Bank to raise funds supporting neighbors facing hunger across North Texas. The event features tastings from local chefs, beverages, and handcrafted bowls created by local artists.
When and where is the 26th Annual Empty Bowls fundraiser taking place?
The 26th Annual Empty Bowls fundraiser is scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Perot Family Campus in Plano, Texas.
How can I purchase tickets for the event?
Tickets for the event are $100 each and can be purchased at [https://ntfb.org/event/empty-bowls-2026/](https://ntfb.org/event/empty-bowls-2026/).
What does the ticket price include?
Each ticket includes access to tastings from local chefs, beverages, and the opportunity to select a handcrafted bowl made by a local artisan. Additionally, each ticket helps provide 300 meals for neighbors in need.
Who is the celebrity chef for this year’s event?
This year’s celebrity chef is Nikky Phinyawatana, founder and chef of the Asian Mint restaurant group, known for her approach to Thai cuisine and her cookbook, “Thai Food and Travel with Chef Nikky.”
Key Features of the 26th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date and Time | Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. |
| Location | Perot Family Campus, Plano, Texas |
| Presented by | Kroger |
| Ticket Price | $100 per ticket |
| Ticket Purchase | https://ntfb.org/event/empty-bowls-2026/ |
| Celebrity Chef | Nikky Phinyawatana, founder and chef of the Asian Mint restaurant group |
| Proceeds | Support the North Texas Food Bank’s hunger relief programs |
| Community Impact | Helps provide meals for children, families, and seniors facing hunger in North Texas |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
