Three Chicago chefs have been nominated for this year’s James Beard Foundation Awards, according to a Mar. 31 announcement from the foundation.
The James Beard Foundation Awards are considered among the most prestigious honors in the culinary world, recognizing excellence and innovation in restaurants and chefs across the United States. The ceremony will take place June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, which will continue to host the event through 2028.
Bailey Sullivan of Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a nominee for “Emerging Chef.” Sullivan, whose background includes working at several acclaimed restaurants and being a finalist on Season 22 of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” is recognized for her approach that combines seasonal produce with global flavors influenced by Italian cuisine. According to her website, she began her career while studying at Kendall College and has worked at now-closed establishments like Acadia and Yusho Logan Square before joining Monteverde.
Norman Fenton of Cariño and Jacob Potashnik of Feld are both nominated for “Best Chef: Great Lakes.” Fenton opened Cariño in Uptown after gaining experience in Detroit kitchens and with renowned Chicago establishments such as The Aviary and Schwa. He drew inspiration from travels through Mexico before opening Cariño, which earned a Michelin star in 2024. Potashnik opened Feld in Ukrainian Village after cooking abroad in Europe; his restaurant focuses on highlighting local products and farmers through an evolving tasting menu, earning its own Michelin star since opening last year.
Last year’s awards saw five nominations from Chicago with wins for Kumiko bar and chef Noah Sandoval of Oriole. This continued recognition highlights Chicago’s ongoing influence within national culinary circles.
The upcoming awards ceremony is expected to bring further attention to these chefs’ contributions as well as reinforce Chicago’s role as a major center for innovative dining.
