Charleston Celebrates Culinary Excellence at Food & Wine Classic with Renowned Chefs

Charleston Welcomes Culinary Stars for Food & Wine Classic

Charleston, known for its rich culinary scene, recently played host to a dazzling lineup of food celebrities during the late-September Food & Wine Classic. The event brought together renowned chefs who shared their culinary insights and unique styles, much to the delight of local food enthusiasts.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Among the star-studded guests were two familiar faces from the food television world: Maneet Chauhan and Stephanie Izard. Each chef brought their unique flair to the festival with engaging seminars that captivated audiences. Chauhan’s seminar titled “Masala Dabba: The Heart and Soul of the Indian Kitchen” explored the rich tapestry of Indian spices, while Izard’s sessions, “Outside the Brunch Box: Diner Favorites with a Twist,” added a fun spin to classic brunch dishes.

Both chefs are not just local favorites; they have expanded their culinary presence with multiple restaurants and are constantly busy with festivals, cookbooks, and television appearances. It’s almost like they have a magic formula for doing it all!

Finding Balance

When we spoke with Chauhan and Izard, we were eager to find out how they balance their diverse careers. Maneet, a mother of three, highlighted the joy her family brings her. “What brings me the most satisfaction actually, is my family, my kids,” she shared with a warm smile. She reflected, “You see there is a wonderment and they remind you of it on a daily basis.” Her openness about juggling her career and family life resonated with many who strive for that perfect work-life balance.

Stephanie, who manages several restaurants across Chicago and Los Angeles, echoed similar sentiments. “I love all of it — that’s why I keep it so diverse,” she said, referring to her ability to juggle restaurant management, television appearances, and book promotions. Her gratitude for her strong support team allows her to pursue her passion across various platforms.

On the Road Again

But how often are they on the move? Maneet estimated she spends about four days a month at home, especially making a conscious effort to be present during summer when her kids were out of school. “This industry is so flexible,” she noted, while Stephanie mentioned she’s on the road approximately 100 days each year. It’s clear that both chefs work hard to stay connected with their roots while managing their hectic schedules.

Trust in the Team

One key element to their success is the trust they place in their teams. “At the end of the day, you are who you are because of your team,” explained Chauhan. “If you take pride in what you do, the pride permeates through everything.” This sense of teamwork is echoed by Izard as well. She emphasized the importance of having long-term members in her restaurant teams who share her vision, reinforcing a culture built on collaboration and mutual respect.

Me Time

With such busy lives, how do they manage to carve out time for themselves? Maneet finds joy in her work, stating that her passion for the culinary arts keeps her energized. Meanwhile, Stephanie commits an hour each morning to hit the gym, viewing it as her time to recharge. She also makes it a priority to FaceTime with her son every day, a touching reminder of what truly matters.

Comfort Foods and Future Plans

As we chatted about comfort food, both chefs offered nostalgic glimpses into their lives. Chauhan fondly remembers her mother’s Khichdi — a rice and lentil dish that always brought her comfort. In contrast, Izard’s go-to is a simple but satisfying meal: rice topped with random ingredients from the fridge, complemented by a drizzle of mayo and pickles. It’s the little things that often provide the greatest comfort!

Looking Ahead

So, what’s next for these culinary stars? Chauhan expressed her desire to explore opportunities that enrich her life, stating, “What’s next is whatever makes me recharge.” Meanwhile, Izard is balancing her existing ventures while teasing exciting new projects in northern California and Arizona. We can’t wait to see what they cook up next!

As Charleston continues to thrive as a culinary hotspot, the contributions of chefs like Chauhan and Izard remind us that food is more than just a meal; it’s a gateway to community, culture, and cherished memories.