The annual Jean Banchet Awards recognize the best of Chicago's culinary scene. The awards debuted in 2002 and are named for the late restaurateur Jean Banchet, who put Chicago dining on the map in the 1970s and ‘80s with Le Francais.
The awards were held Sunday night at Venue SIX10 to honor the chefs, restaurants and leaders shaping the city’s dining scene.
Indienne in River North was crowned restaurant of the year. The restaurant's chef is Sujan Sarkar, who was born in Kolkata and trained in London, Delhi and Mumbai. The restaurant combines Indian and French cuisine in a fine dining environment.
ohn Manion of El Che Steakhouse & Bar received Chef of the Year and Gene & Georgetti was honored as Iconic Restaurant of the Year, acknowledging its enduring legacy and foundational role in the city’s culinary history.
Chef Grant Achatz of The Alinea Group received the Culinary Excellence Award for his lasting impact on Chicago dining and global gastronomy. Feld earned both Best New Restaurant and Hospitality, while Javauneeka Jacobs of Frontera Grill was named Rising Chef.
A portion of the evening’s proceeds benefited Giving Kitchen, which provides emergency financial assistance and resources to food service workers in crisis across Illinois.
A full list of winners can be found on the Banchet Awards website.