The recognition keeps coming for Mexican/Latin restaurants and their team members with the October 16 announcement of finalists for The Banchet Awards, the Chicago-based awards honoring originality and talent across the region. Named after Chef Jean Banchet of the former Le Francais in Wheeling, Illinois, who was inducted into the Chicago Chefs Hall of Fame in 2013, the organization pays homage to his legacy.
This year’s list includes several finalists in the Mexican/Latin food category:
- Chef of the Year: John Manion, El Che Argentinian Steakhouse and Brasero
- Rising Chef of the Year: Javauneeka Jacobs, Frontera Grill
- Best Counter Service: Taquizas Valdez
- Bar of the Year or Beverage Program of the Year: Cantina Rosa, Maria Rodriguez
- Sommelier of the Year: Alex Cuper, Brasero
- Best Hospitality: Asador Bastian
Winners will be announced during a ceremony at Venue SIX10 in downtown Chicago on January 25, 2026.