Who is Dan Jacobs? 'Top Chef' Season 21 contestant was diagnosed with Kennedy’s disease
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN: Dan Jacobs is going to be competing on Bravo's 'Top Chef' Season 21.
Dan, Head Chef and co-owner of two renowned restaurants in Milwaukee will be one of the 15 contestants this season.
The only Wisconsin-based contestant on this season was diagnosed with Kennedy's disease. Despite this, Dan, alongside his business partner, has been nominated as a semi-finalist for the James Beard Best Chef Midwest award six times, showcasing his culinary excellence and innovation.
His contributions to the culinary world extend beyond the kitchen, reflecting his dedication and passion for creating exceptional dining experiences.
'Top Chef' Season 21 contestant Dan Jacobs moved to Milwaukee after looking for a change of scenery
Originally from Chicago, Dan Jacobs moved to Milwaukee with his wife Kate Riley in 2011 and held positions as a sous chef and executive chef at Roots and Wolf Peach. Later, he served as the executive chef for Odd Duck before venturing into restaurant ownership in 2016.
Jacobs is the co-owner and Head Chef of two acclaimed Milwaukee restaurants called EsterEv and DanDan. While EsterEv offers a rotating tasting menu that showcases flavors from around the world, DanDan puts a modern spin on Chinese-American cuisine with influences from the Midwest.
'Top Chef' Season 21 contestant Dan Jacobs talks about the “exciting” Milwaukee food scene
Dan Jacobs highlighted how Milwaukee's food scene has evolved from being known primarily for beers and bratwursts to becoming culturally rich and diverse.
He emphasized the presence of independent owners and operators, ranging from off-the-beaten-path cafes to family-owned restaurants, which contribute to the city's unique culinary landscape.
Jacobs mentioned that Milwaukee now boasts James Beard Award-winning chefs with global kitchen experience, leading to a transformation into a hub for quality Midwest cuisine.
He expressed excitement about the national attention the city will receive as the host destination for 'Top Chef' Season 21, signaling a shift away from being overshadowed by nearby Chicago.
“It’s amazing to see Milwaukee represented in such an incredible way. As the only Wisconsin-based contestant on this season, I take a lot of pride in representing our incredible culinary community that has inspired me to be where I am today," he said.
'Top Chef' Season 21 contestant Dan Jacobs is a board member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition
Dan Jacobs, in addition to his culinary endeavors, serves as a board member of the Independent Restaurant Coalition. He played a pivotal role in raising $28.6 billion for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund in 2021, supporting independent restaurants during challenging times.
Jacobs also had the opportunity to speak directly to President Joe Biden, advocating for the needs and concerns of independent restaurateurs across the nation. His involvement in these initiatives demonstrates his commitment to supporting and promoting the interests of the restaurant industry as a whole.
Chef Dan Jacobs talks about how being on ‘Top Chef’ was always a 'lifelong dream'
Dan Jacobs was diagnosed with Kennedy's disease, a genetic neuromuscular condition, in the same year he opened his restaurants.
Despite this challenge, he is active in raising awareness and funds for Kennedy's disease. Jacobs and his business partner Dan Van Rite established an annual fundraising dinner called Dim Sum + Give Some to support the Kennedy's Disease Association.
Participating in 'Top Chef' is a way for Jacobs to inspire people with disabilities and it has always been his "lifelong dream". He hopes to use the platform to encourage differently-abled individuals to pursue their passions, especially in the culinary field where physical limitations can often pose significant barriers.
'Top Chef' Season 21 premieres on Bravo on Wednesday, March 20 from 9 pm ET. The episodes will be accessible the next day on Peacock.