Edible Insects Focus of Inaugural Celebrity Chef Event


University of Houston Dining Services and the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management will host the inaugural Celebrity Chef event on Monday, Feb. 19, featuring Chef Hugo Ortega. 

Ortega is a James Beard Award-winning local chef for Hugo's, Backstreet Cafe, Xochi and Caracol – some of Houston's best restaurants.

The presentation will cover various topics from nutritional benefits of edible insects, their current and historical uses in the United States, and even their positive impact on the environment. Ortega will then conduct a cooking demonstration with a discussion and sampling of recipes. 

“Students will get to experience a new way of thinking about cultural cuisine,” said Senior Executive Chef Alexander Brugger. “Bringing new and fresh ideas to campus is what our dining program is all about.”

The event will begin at noon at the Spec's Beverage and Food Appreciation Lab in the Conrad N. Hilton College.

Spaces are limited. Reservations are required and can be made online.