James Beard Award winner
Charleen Badman
- Discipline
- James Beard Award winner
Made By record
Awards & recognition
2 total
1 winner
i. Biography
American chef Charleen Badman built her career around local vegetables. She has said, "I cook for a living."
Coming Up
Today, Charleen is co-owner of FnB and founder and Executive Director of Blue Watermelon Project.
Where They Are Now
Local vegetables remain central to her cooking.
Career - co-owner — FnB, Scottsdale, Arizona - Founder and Executive Director — Blue Watermelon Project - worked in catering arm of the restaurant — Cafe Terra Cotta, Tucson, Arizona (1989) - worked at the restaurant — Rancho Pinot Grill, Phoenix, Arizona - worked at the restaurant — Lobster Club - co-owner — Inside, West Village, New York (2001–2007) - President — Les Dames d'Escoffier, Phoenix chapter, Phoenix, Arizona
Signature
Charleen's signature dishes include Sphinx Date, Grilled Bread Salad with Tomatoes and Peaches, Black Barley Salad, and Lamb Manti with Preserved Lemon Yogurt and Urfa Butter.
Recognition
Charleen Badman has received James Beard Awards, Best Chef of the Southwest (2019).
FAQ What is Charleen Badman's current role? As of 2026, Charleen Badman is co-owner of FnB. Where did Charleen Badman work before? Charleen Badman's earlier career included Cafe Terra Cotta, Rancho Pinot Grill, and Lobster Club. What recognition has Charleen Badman received? Winner, Best Chef of the Southwest (2019).
