Grace Cacciato Wins U.S. Regional Final of S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition
News related to:S.Pellegrino · 2 min read
NEW YORK, Nov. 12, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Grace Cacciato, a rising culinary star, has emerged victorious in the U.S. Regional Final of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2026-27. The competition, held in New York City from November 9-10, brought together some of the region's most promising young chefs, including finalists like Evan Neumann and Natasha Daniels, who also won collateral awards.
Cacciato, a talented chef, wowed the judges with her signature dish, a roasted squab with black raspberry, Swiss chard, toasted buckwheat, chanterelle mushrooms, and ginger sabayon. Her technical skill, creativity, and vision for the future of gastronomy were evident, securing her the title of U.S. Regional Winner. She will now represent the United States at the 2027 Grand Finale in Milan, competing alongside other promising young chefs.
The competition's awards ceremony and gala dinner were hosted by culinary tastemaker Nilou Motamed. Garrett Brower, the 2024 U.S. Regional Winner and chef de cuisine at MICHELIN-starred Bresca in Washington, D.C., and his mentor Aisha Ibrahim, former executive chef at Canlis in Seattle, crafted a collaborative menu for the event. This involvement underscores S.Pellegrino's commitment to championing the global culinary community.
As part of her journey through the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, Cacciato will receive continued mentorship from Ryan Ratino, a chef from MICHELIN-starred Hive Hospitality. Ratino will provide guidance, support, and expertise to help refine Cacciato's signature dish, develop a culinary philosophy, and prepare for the international stage.
Two additional chefs were recognized at the U.S. Regional Final, winning collateral awards. Natasha Daniels won the Acqua Panna Connection in Gastronomy Award for her dish, "The Whole Bird, The Whole Garden," and also received the Fine Dining Lovers Award for the same dish. These awards recognize chefs who demonstrate sustainable practices, successfully connect tradition with modernity, and express their personal beliefs through their dishes.
S.Pellegrino, a premium sparkling mineral water, has long been committed to supporting the culinary community and nurturing the next generation of culinary talents. The Young Chef Academy, open to members from over 70 different countries, provides an environment where passionate young chefs can interact with influential players in global gastronomy. This platform empowers chefs through education, mentoring, and networking opportunities, as well as through the renowned global competition.
Cacciato's journey through the Young Chef Academy is a testament to her dedication and skill. As she prepares to represent the United States at the 2027 Grand Finale in Milan, she joins a community of chefs who are shaping the future of gastronomy.