Last month, EDWINS had its splashing debut in the former Nighttown space, moving from its previous location in Shaker Square. It gave the space a major facelift and expanded its own menus, offering both white-tablecloth fine dining and a more casual menu under the same roof.
It also transformed the basement into an expansive classroom in keeping with its main mission. As EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute, which the eatery is just part of, it trains people returning from prison in culinary and hospitality areas, giving them employable skills. It also gives them tools to build a successful life and careers, and provides support in areas such as housing and child care.
Now EDWINS founder/CEO Brandon Chrostowski has been named the initial winner of the James Beard Foundation’s debut Impact Award. He’ll be honored at the 2025 James Beard Awards ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago June 14-16.
This new award was created to single out people “actively reshaping the food system for the better—championing sustainability, equity, and economic opportunity. These awards highlight change-makers who align with the Foundation’s broader mission to cultivate a better food world for all.”
“This award is a recognition not only of the work we do at EDWINS but also of the power of belief—that everyone, no matter their past, deserves dignity, opportunity, and a seat at the table,” said Brandon Chrostowski in the press release accompanying the announcement. “In my opinion, one of the key benefits of receiving the award is the very large key it presents to open more doors for advancement in the industry.”
jamesbeard.org/awards/achievement-awards/impact