Chicago Chefs Secure James Beard Award Nominations
Three talented chefs from Chicago have been nominated for the prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards, often regarded as the culinary Oscars. The nominees were revealed by the foundation in a recent announcement.
Chicago Chefs and Their Nominations
- Bailey Sullivan – Nominated for “Emerging Chef”
- Norman Fenton – Nominated for “Best Chef: Great Lakes”
- Jake Potashnick – Nominated for “Best Chef: Great Lakes”
Details of the Nominees
Bailey Sullivan, the executive chef at Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio, is recognized for her innovative culinary approach. She operates out of the West Loop at 1020 W. Madison St. Sullivan’s culinary journey began during her studies at Kendall College and includes notable internships at acclaimed establishments such as Acadia and Yusho. Known for her seasonal and globally inspired Italian dishes, she gained national attention as a finalist on Bravo’s “Top Chef” last year.
In the category for “Best Chef: Great Lakes,” both Norman Fenton and Jake Potashnick are being celebrated for their culinary excellence. Fenton, the executive chef and owner of Cariño, opened his tasting menu restaurant in Uptown in 2023. His culinary career began in Detroit and expanded across various kitchens, including notable experiences with the Alinea Group in Chicago. Fenton’s travels in Mexico deeply influenced his innovative, Latin-inspired dishes.
Jake Potashnick, also nominated in the “Best Chef: Great Lakes” category, is the chef and owner of Feld, located in Ukrainian Village. A Chicago native, Potashnick’s passion for cooking was ignited in his family’s kitchen. After honing his skills in Europe, he opened Feld in June 2024, where his “relationship-to-table philosophy” emphasizes sourcing ingredients directly from farmers.
Awards Ceremony Details
The winners of the James Beard Awards will be announced at a ceremony set for June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, located at 20 N. Wacker Drive. This event marks the eleventh year that the awards will be held at this venue, with arrangements confirmed to last through 2028.
A Look Back at Chicago’s James Beard Legacy
In 2025, Chicago had five nominations for the James Beard Awards. Noteworthy among them were Kumiko and chef Noah Sandoval from Oriole, who both secured wins. The legacy of excellence in the Chicago culinary scene continues with this year’s impressive nominations.
The recognition of these talented chefs highlights Chicago’s vibrant food culture and the city’s dedication to culinary innovation. As the awards approach, the spotlight remains on the contributions of these chefs to the ever-evolving gastronomic landscape.
