Ages: 38 and 31. Why they are rising: This restaurant in a former gas station is brimming with originality and sizzle. The menu features "tastes" such as the warm crispy package of asparagus, roasted tomato and fontina, and appetizers such as...

Laura DewellChef/co-owner, Pirosmani, Seattle ...

Niki LeondakisV.P. of Restaurant Operations, Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group, San Francisco...

Age: 42. Why he's rising: After toiling at some of Chicago's best restaurants— L'Escargot, Le Perroquet, Everest, Kiki's Bistro and Park Avenue Cafe—Hogan now has his own restaurant, which Chicago Tribune reviewer Phil Vettel says "may be the best...

Kevin Rathbun Chef/Partner, NAVA, Atlanta ...

Michael MinaExecutive chef, Aqua, and Charles Nob Hill, San Francisco...