The Team
Big Queer Food Fest embraces the vibrant intersection of the culinary and LGBTQIA+ communities, setting the tables for remarkable food and beverage experiences.
By curating a diverse team of talented individuals passionate about LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and culinary excellence, we aim to serve incredible food infused with love, pride, and celebration. With our inclusive approach and commitment to fostering a sense of belonging, we are working to become a prominent player in the LGBTQ+ food space, satisfying the appetites of food enthusiasts from all walks of life.
[From left to right] Chefs Elizabeth Falkner and Rashida Holmes, BQFF founders David Lewis and Chad Hahne, chefs Tiffani Faison, Crista Luedtke, Jon Kung, and Nik Sharma.
The Founders
Chad Hahne
Chad Hahne is an award-winning filmmaker and executive producer with 20 years of experience creating and directing LGBTQ+ and culinary programming. Among his notable production work is the Academy Award-nominated LGBTQ documentary, How to Survive a Plague, about ACT UP and AIDS activism, and the Emmy Award-winning RuPaul's Drag Race. Chad has also directed and produced Transformistas, a documentary exploring the queer community in Cuba. In addition to his work in LGBTQ+ content, Chad is a supervising producer on Alex vs. America and 24 in 24. He has produced TV for the Food Network, including GGG, Tournament of Champions, Superchef Grudge Match, Wedding Cake Championship, and more. He has dedicated his professional life to uplifting the culinary and LGBTQIA+ communities. He resides between Los Angeles and Provincetown with his husband.
David Lewis
David Lewis is an executive producer who works in television and champions the queer and culinary communities. In Boston he graduated from Emerson College and worked in hospitality and film production. In Los Angeles he's been a producer for RuPaul's Drag Race, fashion shows for queer designer Marco Marco, and for numerous food and design television programs including Food Network's Tournament of Champions, Guy's Grocery Games, and twice Emmy-nominated series Ready, Jet, Cook. He has produced some of the biggest names in food television and worked with many notable queer chefs, including Traci Des Jardins, Elizabeth Falkner, and Tiffani Faison. With a commitment to queer talent and inclusivity, David has been a long-time advocate for LGBTQ+ chefs. His passion for highlighting their unique stories has led him to BQFF, a space to recognize and celebrate their impact on the industry and the vibrancy of the LGBTQ+ community.
Tiffani Faison
Celebrity chef, restaurateur, Food Network host and judge, four-time James Beard Awards finalist for Best Chef: Northeast.
Rashida Holmes
LA-based chef, two-time James Beard Award semifinalist, awarded Best New Restaurant by Eater & Popup of the Year by Esquire.
Anthony Ramos
VP of Talent & Communications at GLAAD, executive producer, GLAAD Media Awards, host & correspondent, Emmy-nominated Producer.
Marsha Molinari
Los Angeles restaurateur, human rights activist, and H.wood Group partner with over 20 restaurants and clubs across three countries.
Bryan Barbieri
Head of Public Relations + Partnerships North America, EOS Hospitality
Our Advisory Board
Arnold Myint
James Beard Nominated chef and restaurateur. Top Chef and Food Network Star alum.
"We have to tell the stories of past LGBTQ+ culinary icons who were forced to stay in the closet. So many of them couldn't be out, couldn't be themselves. I'm grateful for those who came before us, and it's our duty to help tell their stories."
- Crista Luedtke, Restaurateur
Non-Profit Partners
Big Queer Food Fest is committed to empowering our community by supporting and amplifying our non-profit organization partners.
Delivers medically tailored meals to chronically ill individuals across Boston, promoting racial and economic justice. Since 1990, they’ve provided over 13 million meals to those with illnesses like HIV, cancer, and diabetes.
Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth supports LGBTQIA+ youth in Boston by providing a safe space, mental health services, and educational programs. Their advocacy and peer support empower young people to thrive.
A national leader in advancing LGBTQ advocacy and representation. Through storytelling, media, and programs, GLAAD fosters acceptance, tackles challenging issues, and protects progress, striving for a world where everyone can live authentically.
Researcher of LGBTQIA+ legal, social, and economic issues, including food insecurity. Their data-driven work informs policy, supports advocacy, and promotes equality.
