As snow covered the streets and protests echoed outside, Chicago’s culinary elite gathered for the Banchet Awards in the Loop. This annual celebration honors the city’s best chefs and restaurants. Indienne took home the top prize for Restaurant of the Year, while John Manion from El Che and Brasero was named Chef of the Year.
The event was marked not only by celebrations but also by significant political themes. Guests cheered as a slideshow featured local eateries with “Hands Off Chicago” signs, emphasizing the importance of community support. Michael Muser, the event’s executive director, reminded everyone that Chicago’s hospitality blends excellence with warmth.
Chef Jake Potashnick of Feld, which won both Best New Restaurant and Best Hospitality, criticized immigration policies during his speech. “Anyone with a platform should speak out,” he noted. The night was filled with light-hearted moments, with Muser joking about food influencers and the role of AI in kitchens. He declared, “Yet, Chicago restaurants are crafted by human hands and hearts—no robot can replicate that.”
John Manion celebrated his award by highlighting the spirit of family in Chicago’s food scene. “We look out foreach other,” he said. This sense of community resonates especially impactful today.
Indienne’s Culinary Director, Sahil Sethi, felt the award affirmed their hard work over the past few years. “It shows the love the community has for us,” he stated. Gene & Georgetti earned the Iconic Restaurant award, celebrating its long-standing legacy in Chicago.
Additionally, Chef Grant Achatz from Alinea received a lifetime achievement award. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “I’m grateful to be part of this vibrant culinary community.”
The Banchet Awards carry the name of Chef Jean Banchet, who significantly shaped Chicago’s dining scene in the ’70s and ’80s. Muser emphasized that Banchet’s influence is still felt in kitchens across the city today.
In a recent survey by the James Beard Foundation, 71% of chefs have emphasized the importance of community support in navigating post-pandemic challenges. The food scene in Chicago not only thrives on talent but also rests on a strong foundation of solidarity.
The evening concluded with numerous heartfelt speeches and a complete list of winners, celebrating Chicago’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Complete List of 2026 Banchet Award Winners:
- Restaurant of the Year: Indienne
- Chef of the Year: John Manion (El Che, Brasero)
- Best New Restaurant: Feld
- Rising Chef of the Year: Javauneeka Jacobs (Frontera Grill)
- Best Neighborhood Restaurant: Mahari
- Best Heritage Restaurant: Nine Garden
- Best Counter Service: Sanders BBQ Supply Co.
- Pastry Chef of the Year: Justin Lerias (Del Sur)
- Bar of the Year: Gus’ Sip & Dip
- Sommelier of the Year: Alex Cuper (Brasero)
- Best Hospitality: Feld
- Best Design: The Alston
- Iconic Restaurant of the Year: Gene & Georgetti
- Culinary Excellence Award: Grant Achatz
This year’s awards underscore the resilience and creativity that characterize Chicago’s culinary community.
