Wolfgang Puck Unveils Elevated 98th Oscars Governors Ball Menu Featuring High Tech Ice Cream

Explore the 98th Oscars Governors Ball menu featuring Wolfgang Puck’s signature dishes, new sushi stations, and vegan options for Hollywood’s biggest night in 2026.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 12, 2026, 4:02 AM EDT

Source: Variety

Signature Classics and New Interactive Stations

The 2026 menu balances Wolfgang Puck’s legendary staples with contemporary additions designed to cater to a diverse global palate. Guests can expect the return of the famous Oscar shaped smoked salmon crackers and the comforting chicken pot pie that has become a hallmark of the event. However, the introduction of a dedicated sushi and salmon station marks a significant expansion of the gala's offerings. Five specialized chefs will be stationed on site to prepare fresh handrolls, nigiri, and crispy rice cakes for the star studded crowd.

Culinary Innovation and Family Traditions

In a fusion of past and present, the dessert menu features an apple strudel based on a recipe from Puck’s own mother. Enhancing the service of these sweets is a new technical investment: a specialized ice cream machine. According to Byron Puck, who co-leads the culinary team with his father, the device is designed to solve the logistical challenge of serving frozen desserts to 1,500 people simultaneously. The machinery maintains a precise temperature while continuously turning the mixture to ensure a silky, consistent texture that avoids the "rock hard" state often found at large scale banquets.

Inclusive Dining and Celebrity Preferences

Maintaining a reputation for dietary inclusivity remains a priority for the Puck team. The chef recalled a pivotal moment during the 2020 awards when Best Actor winner Joaquin Phoenix arrived with a strictly vegan team. The kitchen was able to pivot immediately, providing a full suite of plant based dishes that Phoenix later lauded. For the 98th edition, the kitchen is fully prepared to accommodate various dietary restrictions, ensuring that the high pressure environment of Hollywood's biggest night remains seamless for all attendees.