Jacob Bickelhaupt was born and raised in Fond du Lac Wisconsin, and moved to Chicago to begin his culinary career. A self-taught chef, Bickelhaupt worked in some of the world's most highly-regarded restaurants before beginning his own critically acclaimed projects. A recipient of 2 Michelin stars in 2015, 2016 and 2017, Bickelhaupt is also a Food & Wine Best New Chef 2015, James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef: Great Lakes, Jean Banchet Chef of the Year, amongst other accolades and honors.

His highest accomplishment to date, however, is his sobriety and his dedication to advocating for a healthier lifestyle for those in the service industry. Today, Bickelhaupt is thrilled to call Denver home, where he lives with his wife, a Colorado native, and their two rescue puppies. Chef Bickelhaupt and his wife, Nadia, own and operate K O N R O, a pop up restaurant hosted in undisclosed locations. The dinner features a 12-16 course tasting menu and is likened to the ultimate Michelin star dinner party.