Milwaukee Chef Dan Jacobs Competes in 'Tournament of Champions'

Jacobs, a former 'Top Chef' contestant, battles Kennedy's Disease as he vies for the title.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:40pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a chef's hands carefully arranging ingredients on a plate, the textures of the food and cooking tools captured in dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting to create a sense of culinary artistry and perseverance.Milwaukee chef Dan Jacobs, a former 'Top Chef' contestant, brings his culinary expertise and personal resilience to the high-stakes 'Tournament of Champions' competition.Today in Milwaukee

Dan Jacobs, a Milwaukee-based chef who previously appeared on Bravo's 'Top Chef', is one of 16 contestants competing in the current season of Food Network's 'Tournament of Champions VII'. Jacobs, who has been open about his diagnosis of Kennedy's Disease, a rare neuromuscular disorder, is now facing off against other top chefs in the high-stakes cooking competition.

Why it matters

Jacobs' participation in 'Tournament of Champions' shines a light on the challenges faced by chefs and other food industry professionals living with disabilities or chronic illnesses. His story of perseverance and culinary excellence despite his health condition is an inspiration to many.

The details

Jacobs, who owns several restaurants in Milwaukee, first gained national attention as a contestant on Season 21 of 'Top Chef' in 2017. Now, he is one of 16 chefs competing in the latest edition of Food Network's prestigious 'Tournament of Champions' series, which pits top culinary talents against each other in a high-pressure cooking competition.

  • Jacobs appeared on 'Top Chef' in 2017.
  • The current season of 'Tournament of Champions VII' is airing in 2026.

The players

Dan Jacobs

A Milwaukee-based chef who previously competed on 'Top Chef' and is now a contestant on Food Network's 'Tournament of Champions VII'.

Food Network

The television network that airs the 'Tournament of Champions' cooking competition series.

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What they’re saying

“Competing on 'Top Chef' was an incredible experience, but this 'Tournament of Champions' is taking things to a whole new level. I'm honored to be here and I'm going to give it my all.”

— Dan Jacobs, Chef

What’s next

Viewers will have to tune in to see how far Jacobs advances in the 'Tournament of Champions' competition.

The takeaway

Jacobs' participation in the high-profile 'Tournament of Champions' showcases the resilience and culinary talents of chefs living with disabilities, inspiring others to pursue their passions despite the challenges they may face.