Unhoused dining room guests enjoy steak in celebration of Muhammad Ali's birthday

The aroma of marinated steaks grilling up fills every corner of St. Vincent de Paul’s Phoenix Dining Room courtyard. Five high-profile chefs work hard beneath the rising steam, flipping each steak to perfection, their mind focused on the joy the exquisite treat will bring to the guests of Phoenix Dining Room. For some guests, it will be the first time eating steak or a treat they hadn’t savored in a while. 

That morning, the meal and festivities were in honor and memory of Muhammad Ali on what would have been his 83rd birthday. Known as “The Champ,” Ali had a heart for serving those in need and was a passionate advocate for giving back to his community.

The event was sponsored by Celebrity Fight Night Founder Jimmy Walker, a close friend of Ali, who donated enough steak from Steak 44 to serve 500 guests. Marc Lupino, Executive Chef at Steak 44, personally coordinated with the Phoenix Dining Room kitchen team, ensuring the timely delivery and seasoning of the steaks for the special occasion.

Guests were treated to a delicious meal featuring a juicy steak filet prepared by the guest chefs, accompanied by sides of creamy mashed potatoes, fresh salad, and mix of green beans crafted by SVdP’s kitchen staff. To complete the meal, a cupcake was served and prepared by Executive Pastry Chef Charlene Dete of Chateaux Luxe.

As the steaks were plated, the dining room filled with excitement and gratitude. Guests eagerly waited in line, their faces lighting up with anticipation as the five high-profile chefs joyfully handed out each meal. Among the chefs serving were Marc Lupino, Chief Executive Chef of Steak 44 and Dominick’s Steakhouse; Vincent Guerithault, owner of Vincent on Camelback; Christopher Gross, Head Chef at Wrigley Mansion; Chris Bianco, chef-owner of Pizzeria Bianco; and Mark Candelaria, Managing Director at Candelaria Design.

Our guests savored every bite of this meal with joy and excitement.

This marks the eighth year that SVdP, Jimmy Walker, and chefs, come together to honor Muhammad Ali’s birthday by sharing a memorable steak lunch with SVdP guests, continuing his legacy of compassion and service.

“I love serving our guests on this day,” shared Marc Lupino. “I’ve been very fortunate in my life—I have a family and kids—and a lot of people don’t have that. I’m here with a humble heart, showing my kids how important it is to treat others with dignity and compassion.”