Lifestyle

Northeast Ohio Chef Daniel Bolaños Joins James Beard Legacy Program

Published

3 months ago

5 January, 2026

Cleveland chef and entrepreneur Daniel Bolaños has been selected for the prestigious James Beard Legacy Network Program, a notable initiative aimed at supporting chefs from underrepresented backgrounds. Bolaños, the chef and owner of the virtual restaurant concept Saed, is among only ten chefs chosen nationwide for this year’s cohort.

Founded in 2021 by the James Beard Foundation, the Legacy Network Program is a 12-week mentoring initiative that begins on January 12, 2024. The program is designed to enhance the leadership skills of culinary professionals, providing them with the opportunity to connect with seasoned mentors and fellow participants.

Bolaños, who hails from Painesville, Ohio, expressed his enthusiasm for the program. “One of my goals is to be mentored by a James Beard-award winning chef and learn how to become one,” he noted. He aims to deepen his involvement with the James Beard Foundation and explore avenues for expanding his business.

Having a Hispanic background, with his father originating from Guatemala, Bolaños is proud to represent his heritage in the culinary landscape. He graduated from the culinary program at Cuyahoga Community College and has gained valuable experience working at various establishments in the Cleveland area, including the now-closed Wolf Pack Chorus in Little Italy.

Bolaños emphasizes the uniqueness of Saed, which specializes in world-inspired cuisine and new American brasserie-style food. Together with his partner, Katie Sahadi, he creates customized dining experiences tailored to clients’ specific needs, ranging from baby showers to large family gatherings. “We do custom menus to meet our clients’ needs and expectations,” Bolaños explained.

Looking ahead, Bolaños is focused on his long-term goal of opening a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes sustainability and community engagement. His participation in the James Beard Legacy Network Program marks a significant step in his journey toward achieving this vision.

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