Coeur d’Alene Casino Executive Sous Chef Anthony Buttice Wins CDAide Chef Challenge

Anthony Buttice, Executive Sous Chef at Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, earned top honors at CDAide’s Chef Challenge held Oct. 14 at the Hagadone Event Center in Coeur d’Alene. The annual event raised nearly $75,000 for CDAide’s Care program supporting local hospitality and restaurant workers in financial hardship.

Buttice won Best Appetizer with sesame-seared tuna with shallot ponzu reduction and red ginger pearls. He also took the overall title in the three-challenge competition.

“It’s an honor and very humbling to give back to local hospitality workers in need,” said Buttice. “We get to showcase our skill set while raising money for an amazing local charity.”

CDAide is a Coeur d’Alene nonprofit that assists hospitality and restaurant workers in the greater area through referrals from managers, owners, co-workers and others.

Supporting Local Hospitality Workers

“These individuals are the backbone of our tourism economy, yet many live paycheck to paycheck,” said Jason Nye, CDAide Executive Director. “The funds we raise ensure they receive urgent assistance – housing, medical care, transportation – as well as support for long-term stability and well-being.”

Buttice added: “It was a privilege to be involved with CDAide, a wonderful organization operated by talented, caring people. Knowing our peers will benefit from our combined efforts was truly incredible to experience.”

Event Outcomes for the Community

As reported by Indian Gaming, the competition delivered direct aid to workers while highlighting culinary talent from the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel. The results tie staff skills to measurable support for the sector that underpins regional tourism.