Michael Psilakis

Psilakis Still Top Chef

The Greek Reviver.
The Greek Reviver. Photo: Getty Images

A year after Esquire picked Michael Psilakis for Best Chef of 2007, Bon Appétit has named our favorite Greek toquethrob Chef of the Year in its October issue. Psilakis, credited for helming his own Greek revival, said he’s still defending his food’s authenticity: “I got tired of answering the question, ‘Is it really Greek?’” This latest accolade comes on the heels of a James Beard nomination for Best New Restaurant (Anthos), and the honor of sole New Yorker chosen as a Food & Wine Best New Chef. He even tells Bon Appétit that he dreams of his own restaurant in Athens. Just remember, Michael — we christened you a Greek God way back in early 2007. Babbo’s Gina DePalma snagged the pastry-chef award, and Bobby Flay is this year’s “Best Cooking Teacher.” The winners get a gala in their honor at Del Posto on September 15.

The 2008 Bon Appetit Magazine Awards Celebrate Today’s Best Chefs, Tastemakers and Food Artisans [Market Watch]

Related: Roving Chef: Michael Psilakis Buys Greek in Astoria

Psilakis Still Top Chef