Chef Leadership Changes and Rising National Visibility

Recent talent movement includes Willa Jean’s hires of Sarah LeBlanc and Divya Vohra, Jason Darensbourg’s move, Sidney Montrel’s planned Jung Hotel concept, Santiago Paz’s locally influenced Nikkei direction at Nobu, and Restaurant August’s post-renovation reopening. Sophina Uong’s selection for Taste America’s September 16 New Orleans event adds national attention to the city’s chef community.