Chicago's culinary community gathered at Venue SIX10 Jan. 26 to celebrate the annual Jean Banchet Awards. (Photo Jean Banchet Awards)
Chicago's culinary community gathered at Venue SIX10 on Sunday, Jan. 26 to celebrate the annual Jean Banchet Awards, honoring excellence in the city's vibrant restaurant scene. The event recognized outstanding achievements across 13 categories, including the newly introduced Best Pizza award.
The prestigious Restaurant of the Year title was awarded to Avec, a long-standing favorite known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and communal dining experience. Chef of the Year honors went to Otto Phan of Kyōten, celebrated for his innovative approach to sushi and commitment to the omakase tradition.
Cariño, a newcomer making waves with its contemporary Mexican fare, was named Best New Restaurant. In the Rising Chef of the Year category, Chris Jung of Maxwells Trading was recognized for his creative and dynamic culinary contributions.
The Pastry Chef of the Year award was presented to TC Lumbar of Elske, applauded for crafting desserts that harmoniously blend Scandinavian influences with modern techniques. Bisous earned the title of Bar of the Year, offering patrons an exceptional cocktail program in a chic atmosphere.
Stumara was honored as Best Heritage Restaurant, celebrated for its dedication to preserving and showcasing traditional culinary practices. Jelena Prodan, associated with S.K.Y., Valhalla, and Apolonia, was named Sommelier of the Year for her expertise in curating exceptional wine experiences.
Le Bouchon received the Best Neighborhood Restaurant award, recognized for its enduring presence and authentic French bistro charm. Ragadan was acknowledged for Best Counter Service, offering quick yet high-quality dining experiences.
Dear Margaret was celebrated for Best Hospitality, reflecting its commitment to creating a welcoming and memorable dining environment. The inaugural Best Pizza of the Year award was bestowed upon Spacca Napoli Pizzeria, renowned for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Tre Dita was recognized for Best Design, praised for its aesthetically pleasing and thoughtfully crafted dining space.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Culinary Excellence of the Year Award to James Beard Award-winning chef Roland Liccioni. With a distinguished 40-year career, Liccioni has significantly influenced Chicago's dining landscape, notably through his work as chef-partner of Le Francais alongside Jean Banchet and as chef de cuisine of Les Nomades.
The Jean Banchet Awards, named in honor of the chef who elevated Chicago's culinary reputation with his renowned restaurant Le Francais, continue to celebrate and acknowledge the innovative talents contributing to the city's dynamic food scene.
Sources: Chicago Tribune: https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/01/27/jean-banchet-awards-2025/; Modern Luxury Chicago: https://mlchicagosocial.com/jean-banchet-awards-winners-2025-chicago; Chicago Sun-Times: https://chicago.suntimes.com/food-and-restaurants/2025/01/27/chicago-banchet-food-awards-2025-winners-top-chef-restaurant-pizza-best-bar; Jean Banchet Awards: https://www.banchetawards.com
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