The Culinary Titans are here—Connecticut’s boldest chefs, visionaries, and leaders redefining what hospitality means. These nominees for Chef of the Year represent passion, precision, and perseverance. From fire and flavor to heart and hustle, each one turns chaos into craft, inspiring the next generation to cook, lead, and serve with purpose.

There’s something electric about this time of year in Connecticut—the hum of full dining rooms, the smell of bourbon and citrus, and the buzz of the CRA Crazies Awards. Love them or hate them, tonight we celebrate the names on the list. From chefs to bartenders, dishwashers to dreamers, this is our time. Read The Hospitality Club’s Crazies Series and meet the people shaping Connecticut hospitality. #CTCrazies #HospitalityClub