A- A+

Culinary Discovery

The World Food & Music Festival highlights the vibrant and diverse culinary scene of Greater Des Moines (DSM). But the exploration doesn't end there —discover even more unique dining experiences throughout the region. Plus, find recipes from the Festival to recreate those flavors at home!

Culinary Discovery Pavilion sponsored by Midwest Living

The 2026 Culinary Discovery Pavilion schedule will be shared later. In the meantime, explore the schedule from 2025.

Friday  

  • Noon: Kimchi Salsa, Ube Halaya and Ube Swirl Cheesecake | Katlyn Moncada (Better Homes & Gardens)
  • 1:15 p.m.: Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves) | Julie Heathcote (Sunflower Chef Catering)
  • 2:30 p.m.: Reverse Seared Beef Picanha with Chimichurri | Calvin Schnucker (The Good Butcher)
  • 4 p.m.: The World of Food in a Major Media Company | People Inc. Roundtable Discussion
  • 5:15 p.m.: Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum) | Sue Hudson (CultureALL Ambassador)

Saturday

  • Noon: Vermicelli Noodle Bowls with Shrimp and Lemongrass Marinade | Emily Nienhaus (Allrecipes)
  • 1:15 p.m.: Spicy Sausage and Sweet Corn Summer Pasta | Rachel Walker (The Hearty Life)
  • 2:30 p.m.: Monster Cookie Cake and German Chocolate Cake | Rae Guillermo (The Dessert Mixologist)
  • 4 p.m.: The World of Food in a Major Media Company | People Inc. Roundtable Discussion
  • 5:15 p.m.: Mapo Tofu | Chef Cass (DSMCulinary)
  • 6:30 p.m.: Blueberry Bourbon Barbeque Sauce and Sweet and Tangy Barbeque Sauce | Andrea Love (Dinner Delights)

Sunday

  • 11 a.m.: The World of Food in a Major Media Company | People Inc. Roundtable Discussion
  • 12:15 p.m.: Mediterranean Board with Turkish Carrot Yogurt Dip and Syrian Hummus | Annie Probst (Midwest Living)
  • 1:30 p.m.: Laska Noodle Soup | Gurwinder (When the Curry Hits the Fan!)
  • 3 p.m.: Zucchini Soup with Feta Cheese | David Baruthio (Café Madeleine)

Business Highlights

Recipes

A favorite spot at The Festival has always been the Culinary Discovery Pavilion. Here, local chefs have demonstrated their culinary prowess and shared delectable creations. Check out recipes from our collection and recreate them in the comfort of your own kitchen. Check out all of our favorite 2025 Pavilion recipes.