Imagine stepping onto the hallowed hardwood of State Farm Arena—not to shoot hoops, but to sit down for dinner. Not just any dinner, either. We’re talking about a family-style feast dreamed up by Chef G. Garvin, flanked by some of Atlanta’s boldest new restaurant stars, all under the bright lights where the Hawks play. Welcome to Forkside Seats—a culinary collision of sports, soul, and service, happening Sunday, September 28.
This is not your average gala.
Hosted by Giving Kitchen—the James Beard Foundation Award-winning nonprofit that supports food service workers in crisis—Forkside Seats is part elevated food festival, part philanthropic celebration, and 100% Atlanta. The night kicks off with a cocktail hour in the ultra-exclusive corners of the arena: the Owners Lounge, the Delta SKY360° Club, and even the Hawks’ own locker room. Yes, really. From there, guests descend to center court where tables replace the three-point line and dinner is served—plated with purpose.
The real star of the show? Atlanta’s ever-expanding culinary scene. With dishes from 18 of the city’s most buzzed-about newcomers—think Pizza Verdura Sincera, Tiger Sun, Café Momentum, and Bar ANA—the event doubles as a tasting tour of the city’s next food frontier. It’s a rare opportunity to see what’s new, what’s next, and who’s cooking.
“Forkside Seats brings together Atlanta’s electric culinary talent, the generosity of our partners, and a truly one-of-a-kind experience for guests,” says Giving Kitchen founder Jen Hidinger-Kendrick. “To do it at State Farm Arena—it’s surreal. It’s deeply meaningful. And it shows our city’s food workers that we have their back.”
And that’s the real heartbeat of the night. Proceeds from each ticket go directly to Giving Kitchen’s emergency assistance programs—helping restaurant workers navigate sudden crises like illness, injury, housing disasters, or the loss of a loved one. Since 2013, the organization has provided over $15 million in financial aid to more than 30,000 food service workers—and counting.
Steve Koonin, CEO of the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena, sees this event as more than a partnership. “At the Hawks, we believe in lifting up our city in every way possible,” he says. “Giving Kitchen’s mission aligns perfectly with our values. This is purpose-driven hospitality at its best.”
That purpose will be plated with every course. Because Forkside Seats isn’t just about fine dining or flashy venues—it’s about care. It’s about community. And it’s about honoring the often-invisible labor that fuels our favorite meals.
Whether you’re a food lover, a Hawks fan, or someone who simply believes in showing up for others, Forkside Seats is your invitation to do just that. Tickets are on sale now at givingkitchen.org/forksideseats.
This fall, dinner is served center court. Don’t miss your seat at the table.
The participating restaurant list features many of the city’s newest, hottest, and most in-demand locations, including:
