Charleston and Savannah Celebrate Culinary Excellence with 2024 Rising Stars Announcement

Charleston and Savannah Take Center Stage with Rising Stars Recognition

North or south, the culinary vibes are alive and kickin’ in Charleston and Savannah. In a thrilling announcement today, 2024’s Rising Stars have been revealed, showcasing a talented mix of food and drink professionals. The latest class, honored by a prominent industry publication, features 19 culinary black belts with the skills to make our taste buds dance and our hearts skip a beat!

Mark Your Calendars for the Rising Stars Restaurant Week!

Get ready food lovers! From December 4th to December 18th, the Rising Stars Restaurant Week is set to dazzle our palates with dishes and drinks crafted by these honorees. It’s the perfect chance for diners to sample the culinary magic that this new generation of chefs is bringing to our tables. Talk about a delicious date with destiny!

The Stars Are Shining Bright

The 2024 class of Charleston-Savannah Rising Stars marks the 89th group of winners! This year boasts the 2nd class from Charleston and the 1st class hailing from Savannah. The team behind this prestigious recognition evaluated these culinary heroes through rigorous in-person tastings and interviews, tapping into their talent and creativity, which is all about pushing boundaries! Who wouldn’t want to get a taste of that?

Notably, these Rising Stars aren’t just culinary geniuses; they are also community champions. They’re recognized not only for their *magnificent food and drink* but for their ability to inspire and invigorate the local culinary landscape. In a move to keep things fresh and fab, the starry crew of judges tasted and chatted with over 100 professionals to find those special few who truly represent what it takes to lead in American hospitality.

Meet the Winners!

Let’s dish about the winners, shall we?

• Chef Jillian Schaffer was given the Game Changer Award for her innovative flair in the kitchen.
• Dynamic duo Corrie and Shuai Wang, running the show at Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ, snagged the Community Restaurateurs Award, showing off their commitment to their local community.
• And a special shoutout goes to Christian Favier, crowned Bartender Mentor for his inspiring guidance to up-and-coming talent in the cocktail arena.
• Also, Chef Juan Cassalett of Malagón scores a nod by being a mentor among his peers—way to go!

Giving Back to the Community

StarChefs has collaborated with Singer Equipment Company and Chef Juan Cassalett to lend a helping hand during the Rising Stars Restaurant Week. They’re supporting the Lowcountry Food Bank, a fantastic organization that fights hunger throughout South Carolina’s coastal counties. When you grab that delicious Boquerones Brioche from Malagón, keep in mind that $3 goes straight to the food bank. Every bite counts!

Wrapping It Up

So, folks, as we gear up for the most delicious weeks of the year, let’s give it up for the culinary trailblazers who are making waves in Charleston and Savannah. Their flavors, stories, and community spirit deserve a standing ovation! Make sure to mark those calendars, grab your forks, and prepare for a whirlwind of sensational taste experiences.