Local Event

After The Applause: Leadership Beyond Awards 2026 James Beard Awards® Panel

Cost: Free

This conversation brings together established and emerging visionaries who have redefined excellence across the culinary and hospitality landscape. These award-recognized leaders carry their craft forward to champion foodways, evolve cuisines, and model what it means to lead with purpose. Together, they’ll explore how the principles celebrated on stage translate into everyday leadership that builds workplaces centered on fairness, inclusion, and sustainability.

Moderated by James Beard Award Winner® John Kessler, Journalist and Dining Critic, Chicago Magazine

Panelists include:

James Beard Award Winner® Mashama Bailey, Executive Chef and Partner, The Grey, 

James Beard Award Nominee® Jason Hammel, Executive Chef and Owner, James Beard Award Winner® Lula Cafe  

2026 James Beard Award Nominees Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani, Co-Founders, James Beard Award Winner® Chai Pani Restaurant Group

2026 James Beard Award Nominee® Tavel Bristol Joseph, Partner and Chief Operating Officer, Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group  

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• event
• chicago panel
• chicago culinary event
• james beard panel
• james beard event
• chicago discussion
• Things to do in Chicago, IL
• Illinois Wine & Food Events
• Chicago Wine & Food Events