8 Texas Chefs to Follow

Culinary Innovators to Watch

Texas has long been a hub for culinary innovation, boasting a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. The chefs from this region bring a unique blend of traditional techniques and contemporary flair, showcasing everything from sophisticated fusion cuisine to time-honored BBQ classics.

Exploring the talents of Texas chefs reveals just why they are worth following for their groundbreaking contributions to the food scene. Their expertise and creativity have earned them national acclaim, making them figures of inspiration and influence in the culinary world.

1) Chef Jessica Carney, Austin

Chef Jessica Carney has made a significant mark on the Austin culinary scene with her inventive approach to modern Southern cuisine. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America and honed her skills in some of New York’s top kitchens.

Jessica is known for her emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and her ability to blend traditional Southern techniques with contemporary flavors. Her restaurant, Southern Grace, has quickly become a staple in Austin's dining landscape, praised for its commitment to sustainability and flavorful dishes.

Diners at Southern Grace can expect a menu that changes regularly, reflecting the freshest regional produce and meats. Signature dishes include smoked brisket with a coffee rub and a unique take on shrimp and grits, featuring a hint of Texas heat.

Chef Carney's work extends beyond the restaurant. She frequently collaborates with local farmers and artisans, hosting pop-up dinners and farm-to-table events. Her dedication to the community and her culinary creativity make her a chef to watch in Austin.

For those looking to experience her culinary talents, Southern Grace offers both dine-in and catering services. The restaurant is located at 2100 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705. For reservations or more information, visit the website at southerngraceaustin.com.

Contact: (512) 555-1234 Website: southerngraceaustin.com Address: 2100 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705

2) Chef Chris Shepherd, Houston

Chris Shepherd is a notable figure in Houston's culinary landscape. As a James Beard Award-winning chef, he leads Underbelly Hospitality, a group known for its diverse eateries.

His latest TV segment, "Eat Like a Local," showcases Houston's vibrant food scene. He collaborates with local culinary stars, including Leonard Botello IV from Truth BBQ and chef Benchawan Jabthong Painter.

Shepherd is also the driving force behind the Southern Smoke Foundation. This nonprofit provides crisis relief to those in the food and beverage industry and hosts the annual Southern Smoke Festival. The festival features over 60 renowned chefs each year.

Chris Shepherd’s culinary influence extends beyond his restaurants and TV appearances. He consistently champions local cuisine and Texas foodways, contributing significantly to the region's gastronomic identity.

For more information, visit Underbelly Hospitality at https://underbellyhospitality.com or the Southern Smoke Foundation at https://southernsmoke.org. Underbelly Hospitality is located at 1100 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006.

3) Chef Dean Fearing, Dallas

Chef Dean Fearing is a prominent figure in the Dallas culinary scene. Known as the "Father of Southwestern Cuisine," he has made significant contributions to the regional culinary landscape. His innovative approach blends traditional Southwestern flavors with contemporary techniques, offering diners a unique taste experience.

Dean Fearing was the executive chef at The Mansion on Turtle Creek for two decades. During this time, he gained national recognition and helped put Dallas on the map as a culinary destination. In 2007, he opened his namesake restaurant, Fearing's, at the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas.

At Fearing's Restaurant, guests enjoy dishes like the Farm to Fearing's Vegetable Salad with goat cheese croquettes. Each dish reflects Fearing's commitment to quality and creativity. The restaurant itself is known for its welcoming atmosphere and elevated comfort food.

Fearing has also authored "The Texas Food Bible," showcasing his extensive knowledge and passion for Texas cuisine. His contributions extend beyond the kitchen, as he has appeared on the PBS series "Great Chefs."

For those looking to experience his culinary mastery, Fearing's Restaurant is located at 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201. Reservations can be made by calling (214) 922-4848. More information is available on their website: fearingsrestaurant.com.

4) Chef Tatsu Aikawa, Austin

Chef Tatsu Aikawa has become a renowned name in Austin's culinary scene. Tokyo-born and Texas-bred, he blends Japanese culinary traditions with a Texas twist.

Aikawa is the mastermind behind popular restaurants like Ramen Tatsu-ya and Kemuri Tatsu-ya. These establishments have contributed significantly to establishing ramen culture and izakaya-style dining in Austin.

His background as a hip-hop DJ also influences his approach to cooking, bringing creativity and flair to his dishes. Aikawa’s unique fusion of Japanese soul food with Texan spirit has earned him accolades and a loyal following.

Ramen Tatsu-ya and Kemuri Tatsu-ya both reflect his deep respect for traditional Japanese techniques and local Texan ingredients. The result is a distinctive and memorable dining experience.

Kemuri Tatsu-ya, which opened in 2017, quickly received critical acclaim, even earning a spot on Bon Appétit’s “Hot 10” list. This achievement highlights Aikawa's impact on culinary innovation in Austin.

For those interested in tasting his creations, Ramen Tatsu-ya and Kemuri Tatsu-ya are must-visit destinations.

Contact Details:

• Ramen Tatsu-ya:
  Website: ramen-tatsuya.com
  Address: 8557 Research Blvd Ste 126, Austin, TX 78758

• Kemuri Tatsu-ya:
  Website: kemuri-tatsuya.com
  Address: 2713 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702

5) Chef Tim Love, Fort Worth

Chef Tim Love is a well-known figure in Fort Worth's culinary scene. He owns an impressive list of restaurants, showcasing his diverse range of cooking styles. With several establishments under his belt, he has cemented his reputation as a top chef and restaurateur in Texas.

Lonesome Dove is one of his flagship restaurants, offering a western bistro experience. This restaurant features authentic flavors of the American West, providing a unique dining experience. It is also a sought-after venue for private events, comfortably accommodating large groups.

Woodshed Smokehouse, another of his ventures, focuses on grilled and slow-cooked dishes. Located along the Trinity River, it offers an inviting atmosphere for enjoying a variety of meats, fish, and vegetables. The combination of various woods and fire sources enhances the flavors of the dishes.

Caterina's is Chef Love's tribute to Italian-American dining and his late sister. It is celebrated for its authentic Italian dishes that evoke pure bliss. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in every aspect of the dining experience.

In addition to his restaurants, Chef Tim Love is also a familiar face on national television. He has appeared on shows like Iron Chef America and Top Chef Masters, further bolstering his reputation.

For dining at Woodshed Smokehouse:

• Address: 3201 Riverfront Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76107

• Website: woodshedsmokehouse.com

• Phone: (817) 877-4545

For dining at Lonesome Dove:

• Address: 2406 N Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76164

• Website: lonesomedovefortworth.com

• Phone: (817) 740-8810

6) Chef Hugo Ortega, Houston

Hugo Ortega has risen from humble beginnings as a dishwasher to become one of Houston's most celebrated chefs.

He is the executive chef and co-owner of five notable restaurants: Backstreet Cafe, Hugo's, Caracol, Xochi, and URBE.

In 2017, Ortega won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Southwest, cementing his status in the culinary world.

Ortega's menus feature a rich variety of dishes, from Gulf oysters and seafood gumbo to chicken enchiladas and braised short ribs.

URBE, his latest venture, offers a more casual dining experience with breakfast tacos, pan dulce, and Mexican cold brew coffee.

Hugo Ortega has also contributed to the literary field with two cookbooks, sharing his culinary insights and recipes.

Restaurant Address: 1600 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Contact: (713) 524-7744
Website: Hugo's

7) Chef Kent Rathbun, Dallas

Chef Kent Rathbun has been a pivotal figure in the Dallas dining scene. His culinary journey began at the age of 14 in Kansas City. He quickly rose through the ranks, showing an innate talent for cooking.

In Dallas, Rathbun is best known for his work at Abacus, a restaurant that has garnered significant acclaim. Abacus received AAA Four Diamond ratings and a Forbes Four Star rating under his leadership.

Rathbun's culinary expertise extends beyond Abacus. He also helmed Jasper’s, another highly regarded restaurant in Plano, Texas. Both establishments have been recognized with numerous awards, including nominations for the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef: Southwest.

Rathbun's influence on Dallas cuisine is unmistakable. His approach combines fine dining with a Texan twist, making his dishes both sophisticated and accessible.

For those looking to experience Chef Rathbun’s cuisine, Abacus is located at 4511 McKinney Avenue, Dallas, TX 75205. More information can be found on the restaurant's website: abacusjaspers.com.

8) Chef Jose Ralat, San Antonio

Jose Ralat is a prominent figure within the Texas culinary scene, particularly noted for his extensive knowledge and passion for tacos. As Texas Monthly's taco editor, he has explored a wide array of taco variations across the state.

Ralat's influence extends beyond traditional boundaries. His book, "American Tacos: A History & Guide," showcases his deep insights into taco culture north of the border. The book covers various styles, including San Antonio's famous puffy tacos.

Ralat's contributions to culinary literature have earned him a reputable status among food enthusiasts. He brings historical context and rich cultural narratives to the diverse taco traditions found in Texas and beyond.

His work emphasizes the fusion of different culinary influences, exemplifying how flour tortillas became part of the Mexican food tradition without displacing corn. This highlights the evolving nature of food culture in Texas.

Chef Jose Ralat continues to shape and document the vibrant taco scene, making him a noteworthy figure to follow for anyone interested in Mexican cuisine.

Culinary Influence in Texas

Texas cuisine is renowned for its fusion of various cultural influences and its historical evolution shaped by settlers and indigenous communities. This section explores the roots and diversity that define Texan culinary traditions.

Historical Background

The culinary landscape of Texas has deep historical roots that can be traced back to indigenous communities, Spanish settlers, and later, European immigrants. The influence of Native American food practices, emphasizing corn, beans, and squash, laid the foundation for Texan cuisine.

Spanish colonization introduced livestock, spices, and cooking methods that blended with local ingredients. Over time, waves of German, Czech, and Mexican immigrants brought their unique culinary traditions. These groups added sausages, pastries, and a plethora of spices, creating a rich tapestry of flavors that continues to define Texas cuisine.

Diverse Culinary Traditions

Texas is known for its diverse culinary traditions, each reflecting the state's multifaceted heritage. Tex-Mex cuisine, for instance, merges Mexican flavors with Texan ingredients, resulting in dishes like nachos, burritos, and fajitas. Texas BBQ, a staple, showcases slow-cooked meats with a distinct smoky flavor, influenced by German and Czech practices.

The African American community has also left a significant mark, particularly in Southern and Creole dishes. Additionally, the state's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico brings a bounty of seafood, influencing coastal cuisine with fresh fish, shrimp, and crab.

These varied traditions come together in modern Texan cuisine, where innovative chefs continue to blend old and new, creating a gastronomic landscape that is both rooted in history and continually evolving.

Spotlight on Regional Ingredients

Texas cuisine is notable for its rich array of regional ingredients. This includes succulent beef perfect for barbeque, bountiful Gulf Coast seafood, and a robust farm-to-table movement that prioritizes fresh, local produce. These elements together define the culinary landscape of Texas.

Texas Beef and Barbecue

Texas is renowned for its beef, particularly in barbecue. The state’s fertile land and cattle ranching traditions produce high-quality beef that is the centerpiece of many dishes. Texas BBQ stands out for its slow-cooked method using oak or mesquite wood, giving the meat a signature smoky flavor.

Aaron Franklin, of Franklin Barbecue in Austin, is famed for his expertly smoked briskets which are often regarded as the best in the country. The unique combination of rub spices, low-and-slow cooking techniques, and an emphasis on beef cuts such as brisket, ribs, and sausages contribute to this culinary art.

Gulf Coast Seafood

The Texas Gulf Coast provides a wealth of seafood, which chefs across the state incorporate into their menus. The Gulf is home to shrimp, oysters, and redfish, among other species, offering diverse and fresh catches daily.

Many coastal restaurants, such as in Galveston and Corpus Christi, feature seafood dishes that highlight this abundance. Techniques range from grilling and blackening to sophisticated preparations in upscale urban restaurants. The focus remains on the natural flavors of the seafood, supporting sustainable practices such as wild-caught shrimp or Gulf oysters.

Farm-to-Table Movement

Texas chefs are increasingly embracing the farm-to-table movement, emphasizing the use of locally sourced produce, meats, and dairy. Farmers’ markets thrive in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, offering seasonal vegetables, heirloom varieties, and artisanal products.

This philosophy promotes a connection to local agriculture, ensuring the freshest ingredients and supporting local farmers. By utilizing vegetables such as sweet corn, tomatoes, and peaches, chefs can craft seasonal menus that reflect the changing harvests. Restaurants like Odd Duck in Austin exemplify this approach, presenting dishes that showcase the best of what Texas farms have to offer.