Exciting News from the Culinary World: Meet the 2024 Best New Chefs!
This year, the vibrant city of Los Angeles is buzzing with excitement as the culinary community celebrates the remarkable talents of the 2024 Best New Chefs! With a thrilling lineup of 13 extraordinary chefs, this class marks the largest group ever to receive this prestigious accolade. These chefs are not only creating delicious and groundbreaking dishes but also working towards making their kitchens more sustainable and inclusive.
Who Are the 2024 Best New Chefs?
The faces recognized this year represent an eclectic mix of culinary styles, traditions, and innovations. Here’s a little peek into their world:
- Wedchayan “Deau” Arpapornnopparat – Holy Basil, Los Angeles
- Camari Mick and Mary Attea – The Musket Room & Raf’s, New York City
- Erika Council – Bomb Biscuit Co., Atlanta
- Leina Horii and Brian Lea–Kisser – Nashville
- Silver Iocovozzi – Neng Jr.’s, Asheville, North Carolina
- Nicole Cabrera Mills – Pêche, New Orleans
- Lawrence “LT” Smith – Chilte, Phoenix
- Karyn Tomlinson – Myriel, St. Paul
- Jonny White, Jalen Heard, and Lane Milne – Goldee’s, Fort Worth, Texas
A Culinary Legacy
The journey of choosing the best new chefs is not a simple one. It involves months of hard work, including seeking nominations from esteemed chefs and food critics across the country. The rigorous selection showcases chefs who have been at the helm of their kitchens for five years or less. The competition is fierce, as all nominees are evaluated based on their talent, creativity, and influence in the food world.
According to the Editor in Chief, this moment is just one of the many joys of discovering new chefs who will significantly impact American cuisine. In fact, since 1988, a total of 389 Best New Chefs have been named, including culinary icons like Thomas Keller and Stephanie Izard, whose influence has been monumental in shaping our food culture. Each new chef adds their unique flair to this longstanding tradition.
Breaking Boundaries with Fusion Cuisine
This year’s chefs exemplify a bold new direction for fusion cuisine. For instance, at Raf’s in New York City, Mary Attea and Camari Mick skillfully merge the cooking styles of France and Italy, enchanting diners with rustic and flavorful dishes. Over at Chilte in Phoenix, Lawrence “LT” Smith dares to mix “new-wave” Mexican flavors with elements from around the globe, paving the way for exciting and genre-bending culinary experiences.
The Best New Chef Mentorship Program
To foster even more talent in the culinary field, the 2024 Best New Chef Mentorship program has been initiated. Sponsored by YETI, this program aims to support and nurture the next generation of culinary professionals, ensuring that the legacy of innovation and excellence continues to thrive.
Celebrating at the Best New Chefs Event
Get ready to raise your glasses! The celebration of these culinary stars will take place at an upcoming event sponsored by Mijenta Tequila, S.Pellegrino®, Oceania Cruises, and Foley Family Wines & Spirits. Food enthusiasts can expect a delightful evening filled with exceptional food and drinks, celebrating the very best of what these emerging chefs have to offer.
In conclusion, the 2024 Best New Chefs are all set to capture our taste buds and inspire future culinary creations. As they continue to explore new flavors and techniques, they remind us that food is a universal language, bringing people together over unforgettable meals. So, keep your forks ready and your taste buds tingling—exciting things are happening in the kitchens across America!
