Scott Conant Scott Conant is a two-time James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur, Food Network personality, and cookbook author. With a career spanning more than 35 years, Scott brings flawless technique and unwavering passion to create soulful food in a convivial atmosphere.Expertise: elevated and approachable Italian-inspired cuisine.Experience: Scott Conant built a reputation for outstanding leadership and culinary creativity early in his career, running the kitchens of famed Italian spots such as il Toscanaccio. He officially put his name on the map in 2002 when he opened the beloved L'Impero in Manhattan, which garnered the title of Best New Restaurant from the James Beard Foundation. Following the success of L'Impero, he opened Alto, an elegant Italian restaurant in Manhattan, and in 2004 was named a Best New Chef by Food & Wine. Scott has published four cookbooks including his newest and most personal to date, Peace, Love, and Pasta. He is known to fans worldwide for his Food Network appearances throughout the years, most notably for his long-running role as a judge on Chopped. About Food & Wine Food & Wine, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning online resource for anyone passionate about the culinary world. With rigorously tested recipes and the most trusted restaurant, drinks, culinary travel and home coverage, we inspire and empower people everywhere to discover, create, and devour the best in food and wine. Learn more about us and our editorial process.