Chef Demonstration: George Reis from Ocean Restaurant
George Reis was born in the Midwest and raised in upstate New York, which gave him an appreciation of the greatness of farm fresh foods and the blending of world flavors. After living in New York, Dallas, the Gulf Coast and Atlanta, George realized his dream when he moved to Birmingham and opening Ocean in March of 2002.At Ocean George draws upon the flavors of the world and combines them with the freshest seafood. Ocean has won several awards including the AAA Four Diamond Award for 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 & 2011, the Wine Spectator Award for 2004 through 2011.
In June of 2006, George opened his second restaurant, 26. 26 is located right next door to Ocean. 26 has the same city-feel with an industrial-chic décor and the buzz of bistro dining. Slow-roasted, rustic flavors meet fast, fresh influences… light and heavy play together with the extraordinary flavor combinations that George does so well.
26 opened to the "Birmingham's Best New Restaurant" by the Birmingham News and won the Wine Spectator Award in 2009 and 2010.
George has been an active member of the Birmingham Originals since 2002. George has also served on the Executive Board of the National Dine Originals. He is also active in numerous charities. With 30 years of food and beverage experience George is fortunate to work in a job that he loves and enjoys every day.
Maddie is a local singer songwriter from Helena and a top finalist for the La Reunion Junior Idol. She is also a member of the Helena Belles. She is an amazing singer and we are excited to have her returning..
Featured Non-Profit: International Cultural Exchange Services
The International Cultural Exchange Services has promoted a more peaceful world by advancing international awareness and cultural understanding to thousands of exchange students from all over the world