On October 17, we welcome three of Cincinnati’s James Beard Award-nominated chefs to the stage for our signature event, Chef Talks. Who are the chefs? What does it mean to be a James Beard Award nominee? What is their favorite dish to create? What have been their most loved dishes by guests? Who have they drawn the most inspiration from? Why Cincinnati? Host Jeff Thomas from Q102 will keep the conversation going with the star chefs Cincinnati is proud to call their own. What are your burning questions? Send us a message to let us know, and you might hear yours on stage! Until then, please get to know Jose, Elaine, and Jeffery through their bios below, and be sure to purchase your tickets now.
JOSE SALAZAR - MITA’S
Hailing from Columbia and raised in Queens, Chef Jose began his career as a bartender but quickly realized his passion was in the kitchen. He enrolled in culinary school and landed an internship with famed Chef Jean George Vongerichten at his namesake restaurant. He went on to work with some of New York’s most celebrated chefs and restauranteurs which formed his cooking philosophies.
In 2008, Jose was named Executive Chef of the historical Cincinnatian Hotel and Palace restaurant. It’s there that he was able to hone his cooking style, incorporating the ingredients and techniques of the Americas, Europe, and Japan.
Jose now operates several successful restaurants in Cincinnati, including Mita’s, Daylily Deli, and Safi Wine Bar, and has received many local and national accolades for his contribution to the food and restaurant industry.
ELAINE UYKIMPANG BENTZ - CAFE MOCHIKO
Elaine began her journey in the food world by cooking and baking in restaurants and hotels. She eventually became a pastry chef in Napa, California, where she met her now-husband, Erik.
After a couple of years working in the fine dining world, they moved to Chicago, where they could take more leadership roles and work with the food they were passionate about. They eventually made their way to Erik's hometown, Cincinnati, with dreams of opening their own business.
Two years into operating as a pop-up, Cafe Mochiko finally opened its doors in 2021. Today, Chef Elaine continues to hone her skills as a pastry chef and baker and spends her time outside of work with her corgi, Pip
JEFFERY HARRIS - NOLIA
Jeffery is a passionate chef born and raised in New Orleans, embarking on a lifelong culinary journey. Having worked alongside renowned chefs in both New Orleans and Cincinnati, Jeffery is determined to revolutionize the landscape of black restaurants.
With the support of his amazing wife, Heather, Jeffery opened Nolia in April 2022, where they bring their shared love for food and culture to life.
His culinary endeavors have earned him well-deserved recognition, including being a James Beard finalist for Best New Restaurant.