After the Applause: Leadership Beyond Awards – 2026 James Beard Awards® Panel Discussion
Sun, June 14, 2026
1:30 PM
Kendall College, 12th Floor
18 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60603
General
$0
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