The nomination window for 40 Under 40 – Class of 2025 closes on February 3, marking the final opportunity to recognize the rising culinarians shaping the future of club and resort dining.
Introduced last year by Club + Resort Chef (Click here to see the Class of 2024), the 40 Under 40 program highlights chefs who bring creativity, skill, and leadership to their operations. It celebrates those who are not only executing exceptional food but also mentoring teams, refining systems, and elevating the dining experience for members and guests. In just one year, the response has been overwhelming, with industry professionals eager to spotlight the talent emerging in club and resort kitchens.
“This industry thrives because of the chefs who push it forward,” says Joanna DeChellis, Editorial Director of Club + Resort Chef and Club + Resort Business. “We launched 40 Under 40 to recognize those who are doing just that—leading, inspiring, and redefining what’s possible in club and resort dining.”
The nomination process is open to any chef born in or after 1985 actively working in a club or resort setting. Whether they’re an executive chef leading a team, a sous chef refining their craft, or a talented culinarian making an impact in their operation, this list is designed to honor those shaping the industry today and in the future.
“Some of last year’s honorees had already made a name for themselves, while others were rising stars whose work deserved greater recognition,” says DeChellis. “That’s what makes this list exciting—it brings attention to those making a real difference in their kitchens, regardless of title or tenure.”
Nominations are open to colleagues, managers, club leadership, and even suppliers who work alongside these chefs. Past honorees are welcome to join this year’s class as well, highlighting their continued growth and impact. And for chefs who meet the criteria, self-nominations are encouraged.
“So many chefs hesitate to put their own names forward,” says DeChellis. “But this program is about giving credit where it’s due. If you’re leading, innovating, and making an impact, we want to hear about it.”
The 2025 Class of 40 Under 40 will be announced ahead of the Chef to Chef Conference in Baltimore, where the industry’s top culinarians will gather to exchange ideas and further their craft.
With just days left to submit, now is the time to nominate a deserving chef. The deadline is February 3.
