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Indienne, John Manion Lead 2026 Banchet Awards as Chicago’s Dining Community Rallies

Winners used the stage to spotlight immigration enforcement, underscoring the industry’s culture of mutual support.

Overview

  • River North’s Indienne was named Restaurant of the Year, reflecting its Michelin-star milestone for Indian cuisine in Chicago.
  • El Che and Brasero’s John Manion took Chef of the Year, emphasizing Chicago dining as a community that looks out for one another.
  • Feld won Best New Restaurant and Best Hospitality, and chef Jake Potashnick ended his speech with “Screw ICE” before reiterating his stance on Monday.
  • More than 400 attended at Venue SIX10 for a ceremony livestreamed on NBC, with a “Hands Off Chicago” slide and protests outside for Alex Pretti, who was fatally shot by a federal immigration agent in Minnesota.
  • Chef Grant Achatz received the lifetime achievement honor, and Gene & Georgetti earned the Banchets’ first Iconic Restaurant award before an industry after-party at the venue.