The Future Is Now: StarChefs Announces the 2026 DMV Rising Stars

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Big, big news for our region’s dining scene — StarChefs has announced its 2026 DMV Rising Stars and once again the talent coming out of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia proves that this is one of the most exciting culinary regions in the country.

For those who may not know, StarChefs is the national restaurant industry magazine that has been spotlighting up-and-coming talent for over 30 years. Their Rising Stars Awards are no small thing, the editorial team conducts hundreds of in-person tastings before selecting the chefs, pastry pros, bartenders, sommeliers, and hospitality leaders who represent the future of American dining. This year marks the 95th Rising Stars class nationally and the 7th class from the DMV.

To celebrate, StarChefs is hosting the DMV Rising Stars Restaurant Week from March 4–18, 2026, giving diners the chance to experience signature dishes and drinks from this new class. Consider this your two-week excuse to get out and support the next generation of industry leaders.

Here are your 2026 DMV Rising Stars:

Chefs:

-Jason Chavenson**, Maison Bar à Vins

-Julie Cortes, Kayu

-Alam Méndez, Apapacho Taqueria

-Ria Montes, Fish Shop

-Jarrad Silver**, Silver & Sons BBQ

-Martel Stone**, Dōgon

-Robbie Tutlewski**, Little Donna’s (Baltimore)

Pastry Chefs:

-Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit

-Ana Sofía Pino, Lutèce

Baker:

-Ashley Patino,  Julio’s Bagels & Pizza Bones (Richmond)

Game Changer:

-Leah Branch, The Roosevelt (Richmond)

Restaurateur:

Lane Harlan, Clavel, Fadensonnen, The Coral Wig, W.C. Harlan (Baltimore)

Community:

-Deke Dunne, Allegory

Concept:

-Keiller Kyle, Ovenbird Bakery (Baltimore)

Butcher:

-Kyle Morse, The Mayor (Richmond)

Bartenders:

-Andre Levon, Clavel Mezcaleria (Baltimore)

-Samuel Nellis**, Silver Lyan (Yeah, Sammy!)

Sommeliers:

-Eric Moorer, Gemini

-Grayum Vickers, Lillian (Richmond)

Roaster:

-Kris Fulton, Sophomore Coffee (Baltimore)

Mentor:

Matt Conroy & Isabel Coss, The Popal Group (Lutèce, Maison Bar à Vins, Pascual

What we love about this list? It spans D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. It celebrates chefs, bakers, bartenders, butchers, sommeliers, restaurateurs, and community builders. It reflects a region that continues to evolve  and lead, even in these challenging times.

For more information and the full details on DMV Rising Stars Restaurant Week, visit: starchefs.com