Myrtle Beach, S.C. – September 18, 2026 -- The Grand Strand Chef's Table returns Friday, Oct. 16, at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, spotlighting the region's chefs as national accolades pile up for the local dining scene. Gullah Geechee chef BJ Dennis headlines the event, hosted by The Local Palate magazine in partnership with Visit Myrtle Beach, the James Beard Foundation and the Culinary Institute.
The evening will feature tasting plates, beverage stations, live cooking demonstrations and interactive culinary experiences, with students from the Culinary Institute working alongside participating chefs. A portion of proceeds will support the institute's study abroad program and the James Beard Foundation's Good Food for Good mission.
Hook & Barrel earns Tripadvisor's top U.S. casual dining ranking
Chef and restaurateur Heidi Vukov's Hook & Barrel was named Tripadvisor's No. 1 casual dining restaurant in the United States and No. 7 in the world for the 2026 Travelers' Choice Awards. Vukov, who runs restaurant group Heidi's Corner, was also the first Myrtle Beach-area chef named a James Beard Award semifinalist. Her group -- which includes Hook & Barrel, Croissants Bistro & Bakery and Coffee & Cream Cabana -- will be represented at the Chef's Table by Megan Fenwick of Croissants.
Culinary Institute leader wins two statewide honors in 2026
Chef Joseph Bonaparte, executive director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, was named the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association's Hospitality Educator of the Year and received the A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award in 2026. Jordan Heyd of Lekker Eats was selected as a 2026 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, marking the second straight year the honor has gone to a Grand Strand chef, following Darren Smith of Rivertown Bistro and Bonfire in Conway in 2025.
O.A.K. Prime Kitchen earns first Michelin Guide recognition for the region
O.A.K. Prime Kitchen and Bar became the Grand Strand's first restaurant to receive a Recommended designation in the inaugural Michelin Guide American South. Stuart Butler, President of Visit Myrtle Beach, said the region's chefs, students and restaurateurs are combining fresh ideas with local traditions and introducing visitors to global flavors. Tickets and the latest chef lineup are available through The Local Palate's event page.