Tribune Names Goosefoot's Chris Nugent "Chef Of The Year"

By Anthony Todd in Food on Jan 18, 2013 4:40PM

A dish at Goosefoot. Photo via Grubstreet Chicago.

The Tribune's dining awards aren't quite as comprehensive or anticipated as Time Out's or The Reader's, but it's always good to get another set of "best-of" lists to argue with your friends about. There aren't a lot of surprises on the list, but you definitely won't go wrong if you follow it. This year, Goosefoot Chef Chris Nugent got another nod, and many other familiar faces in the Chicago restaurant industry were recognized as well.

Goosefoot continues to be one of the hottest reservations in town, though the opening press has died down a bit. Chicago Magazine called it the best new restaurant earlier in the year, and this is certain to make it even more impossible to get reservations.

Amanda Rockman (of Balena and The Bristol) received another accolade as best pastry chef, and the Tribune also recognized their baker, Peter Becker.

Since it's still the time of year for best-of lists, we were particularly intrigued by their notable restaurant selection. It's all over the map: Acadia, Bar Toma, Andy's Thai Kitchen, Publican Quality Meats, Elizabeth, Sixteen, and Yusho. Some new, some older, some very expensive and some counter service.

Oh, and for the beer nerds? Revolution Brewing won best beverage maker.