The Family Reunion at the Salamander Middleburg is not your typical event. It is a unique gathering where attendees are encouraged to come as friends and leave as family. With roughly 1,000 people in attendance, fostering deep connections amongst everyone is no easy task. However, during the welcome reception, guests quickly bonded over wine, conversation, and even some dancing to the Cupid Shuffle.
Now in its fourth year, The Family Reunion is a celebration of Black culinary excellence. This annual event is spearheaded by Kwame Onwuachi, a James Beard Award-winning chef known for his Afro-Caribbean restaurant, Tatiana, in New York. Joining him as a co-host is Sheila Johnson, the CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts. Together, they bring plenty of star power to the occasion, but it is the food that truly steals the show.
Under a massive white tent, attendees lined up to savor offerings from some of the nation’s most acclaimed barbecue pitmasters. From smoked beef ribs with a jerk sauce to empanada-sized hand pies with a cherry filling, the variety of flavors delighted the taste buds of all guests. Notably, a mesquite-smoked oxtail from California’s Kevin Bludso was a crowd favorite, running out before the evening came to a close.
Later in the evening, Sheila Johnson and Kwame Onwauchi welcomed guests onstage, highlighting recent achievements and future endeavors. Johnson discussed Salamander’s expansion into Washington D.C., as well as the upcoming opening of Onwauchi’s new venture, Dogon, at the Salamander Washington D.C. on September 9. Expressing gratitude to the attendees and sponsors, including United Airlines and AmaWaterways, Johnson thanked everyone for their support in making the event possible.
The Family Reunion is more than just a culinary gathering; it is a place where friendships are forged, bonds are strengthened, and memories are created. Through the power of food and shared experiences, this event showcases the importance of coming together, celebrating diversity, and embracing unity.