Rising Star Chefs

Rising Star Chef Competition

The Rising Star Chef Competition showcases the Capital Region’s most talented up-and-coming chefs. Rising Stars are chosen by the festival’s board of directors after an online nomination process and invited to cook during the Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival’s Grand Tastings & Seminars on January 23-24, 2026. This exciting competition celebrates innovation, creativity, and the next generation of culinary leaders in our community. 

To be eligible, nominated chefs must work in the Capital Region and meet at least two of the following criteria:

  • Chef or chef-owner of a restaurant that has been open for less than two years.
  • Uses innovative techniques in food production.
  • First-time executive chef or executive sous chef.
  • Shows commitment to community service.
  • Demonstrates originality and creativity in menu design.
  • Promotes and utilizes local produce and ingredients whenever possible.