SPAC Announces 2026 Culinary Arts Events

Photos of Natasha Pickowicz, Jyoti and Auyon Mukharji, and Devin Finigan provided by SPAC.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) recently announced the return of its CulinaryArts@SPAC initiative this winter and spring, presented at The Pines at SPAC.

The 2026 season begins on Feb. 5 with chef and four-time James Beard Award finalist Natasha Pickowicz, fresh off the release of her new book “Everyone Hot Pot,” an exploration of Lunar New Year traditions.

On April 23, mother-son team Jyoti and Auyon Mukharji will present “Heartland Masala: Indian Cooking from an American Kitchen,” blending Indian culinary traditions with diasporic American stories. 

The series concludes on May 21 with “A Kitchen on Goose Cove,” celebrating the culinary magic of coastal Maine with acclaimed chef Devin Finigan of Aragosta, recognized as one of Food & Wine’s best restaurants in both 2024 and 2025. 

Each event features exclusive tastings; conversation with chefs, authors and hosts; and opportunities for book signings. The conversations will be recorded for future broadcast on WAMC’s The Roundtable as part of its “WAMC on the Road” series.

“CulinaryArts@SPAC is a celebration of culture, connection, and the power of a shared table,” said Elizabeth Sobol, CEO of SPAC. “This season, from Natasha Pickowicz’s joyous exploration of hot pot traditions, to the Mukharjis’ rich journey through Indian cuisine, to Devin Finigan’s evocative taste of the Maine coast, each gathering reflects SPAC’s mission to bring people together through art, nature, and the stories that shape how we eat. I’m especially delighted to welcome Auyon Mukharji, whose band Darlingside is one of my personal favorites, adding a familiar and local musical connection to the evening.”