Curtis Duffy is a celebrated Chicago chef, co-owner of Ever, acclaimed for innovative cuisine, featured in For Grace, and a mentor shaping the next generation.
Curtis Duffy is a world-renowned chef and co-owner of Ever restaurant and After Lounge in Chicago, celebrated for his innovative and highly refined cuisine. Before Ever, his restaurant Grace earned top international recognition, and he also achieved acclaim at Avenues at The Peninsula Hotel Chicago. Duffy’s culinary journey reflects a deep commitment to excellence, creativity, and attention to detail, earning him a reputation as one of the most influential chefs of his generation.
His story, chronicled in the 2016 documentary For Grace, highlights the personal challenges he overcame, which profoundly shaped his culinary philosophy and approach to hospitality. Duffy emphasizes precision, artistry, and the emotional resonance of a memorable dining experience, blending technique with storytelling on the plate.
Beyond his kitchens, he mentors emerging talent and serves on the advisory board of the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, where a scholarship in his name helps cultivate the next generation of chefs. Through his restaurants, mentorship, and dedication to the culinary community, Curtis Duffy continues to inspire and redefine modern fine dining.