Chef José Andrés in Orlando for the Winter Park Institute, Inspires More Than 1,600 at Rollins College with Stories of Food, Humanity, and Hope
World-renowned chef, restaurateur, and humanitarian José Andrés brought humor, heartfelt stories, and an inspiring message of service to Winter Park on October 20, 2026, during a special conversation hosted by the Winter Park Institute at Rollins College.
More than 1,600 guests filled Warden Arena for the event, presented by Orlando Health, with attendees traveling from 28 states, four countries, and Puerto Rico. Moderated by WESH 2 News anchor Nancy Alvarez, the evening explored Andrés’ journey from a young cook in Spain to one of the world’s most recognized chefs and humanitarian leaders.
The evening began with laughter when Alvarez presented Andrés with an Orlando City soccer jersey. Andrés joked about Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, suggesting its players were too exhausted from stirring risotto.
From Spanish Paella to Disney Springs
Andrés shared childhood memories of learning to cook alongside his father. At age 12, he desperately wanted to prepare the family’s paella, but his father instead assigned him to tend the fire.
“Everybody wants to do the cooking. Nobody wants to do the fire. Control the fire, and you can do any cooking you want,” his father told him.
The lesson became a lifelong philosophy about mastering the fundamentals before pursuing bigger ambitions.
Andrés also recalled arriving in America as a young Spanish Navy cook, sailing past the Statue of Liberty. Upon discovering that Disney lacked a Spanish restaurant, he promised himself he would someday open one.
That dream eventually became Jaleo at Disney Springs, where Central Florida diners can experience Spanish tapas, paella, and other traditional dishes.
World Central Kitchen: Feeding People in Times of Crisis
Chef Andrés is also internationally recognized for founding World Central Kitchen (WCK) in 2010 following the devastating earthquake in Haiti.
Inspired in part by American Red Cross founder Clara Barton, whose former home stood across from his first Washington, D.C., restaurant, Andrés embraced the belief that culinary talent serving a few people could also serve thousands.
Following Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, WCK helped reopen schools as community kitchens, eventually preparing as many as 150,000 meals daily.
He also reflected on lessons learned in Haiti, where well-intentioned food donations sometimes undermined local farmers and businesses.
“Doing good is not good enough. We must do smart good,” Andrés explained, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts that strengthen local communities rather than unintentionally harming them.
Today, WCK continues providing meals to communities affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises, including in Ukraine and Gaza.
A Message of Humanity and Community
Throughout the conversation, Andrés emphasized that food connects people across cultures, generations, and borders. Every dish carries a story, whether through family recipes, childhood memories, or places encountered throughout life.
Reflecting on the words “We the People” at the National Archives, he shared his philosophy of serving others: “What is good for me must be good for you.”
Perhaps his most memorable message was one of hope:
“In the worst moments of humanity, the best of humanity always shows up.”
The conversation continues October 26 with the Winter Park Institute’s Community Reflection Dinner at The Ravenous Pig, sponsored by Visit Orlando, bringing together local culinary and community leaders.
Andrés’ visit served as a reminder that chefs can make a difference far beyond their kitchens, and that even a single meal can be a powerful act of compassion.
Learn more about World Central Kitchen and support its humanitarian efforts at www.wck.org.
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