Chefs Speak Out: Jimmy Schmidt, a Chef for All Seasons
Monday, 05 April 2010 17:37By Lynn Schwartz
Not that long ago, the idea of menuing local, seasonal ingredients was regarded as “stupid.” Now, more and more chefs are following the lead of this pioneer.
As a celebrated chef, restaurateur, food scientist and innovator, Jimmy Schmidt is a culinary renaissance man. Throughout his 30-year career, Schmidt has received numerous awards including the prestigious James Beard award for “Best Chef Midwest.” Schmidt’s success has not been limited to the kitchen. He is a founding board member of Share Our Strength in Denver, organizing the first “Taste of the Nation” benefit in 1987. The event has become the largest national food-related fundraiser. He also founded Chefs Collaborative in 1991, the nation’s leading nonprofit chefs’ organization devoted to fostering a sustainable food system.