42 Grams' Chef Named One Of The Best In The Country

Alexa Welsh and Jake Bickelhaupt

Food & Wine magazine today revealed its coveted list of Best New Chefs Across America. Eleven made the cut, and the only Chicagoan -- the only Illinoisan -- on the list is right here in Uptown: Jake Bickelhaupt of 42 grams.

When Uptown Update visited 42 grams before its January 2014 opening, Jake and his wife Alexa told us that they had been holding "underground dinners" in their apartment, but were nervous about the landlord finding out, so when Chester's Chicken at 4662 North Broadway closed, they decided to take Jake's talents public and open in the suddenly available storefront.  We (and Uptown's tax base) are grateful that they did!

Congratulations to an Uptown couple who decided to take a chance and invest in our community. We are so happy to see their dream and talent being recognized!