In the case of the Chins, however, what they did come back with was an even greater sense of appreciation for their team.
“No matter what the result will be, the time we’ve had with our group here in Chicago, we feel like we already won,” said Sue Chin prior to the ceremony.
The Chins brought along 15 of their staff, from general managers and partners to chefs and operational team members to Chicago.
“The truth? You’ve been the best long before anyone handed you a nomination,” wrote Lopez in a company group chat. “No matter what happens next, we are here. Standing with you, shoulder to shoulder, ride or die. Because what you’ve built is more than a restaurant group. It’s a home. And we’re damn proud to be in it with you.”
As for Ômo by Jônt chef Ryan Ratino, who happened to be celebrating his birthday the night of the awards ceremony, the 35-year-old took the news in stride. “It’s all good. We keep pushing! Very happy to be a part of the Orlando dining community and what’s to come!”
Bûcheron in Minneapolis was named Best New Restaurant, while New York City power duo Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr (of Frenchette fame) snagged Outstanding Restaurateur honors.
Click here for the full list of winners.
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This article appears in Jun 11-17, 2025.