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    Chef

    Jennifer Blakeslee

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    Portrait of Jennifer Blakeslee

    Portrait of Jennifer Blakeslee

    i. Biography

    Co-owner of Cook’s House in Traverse City, Jennifer Blakeslee leads a focused New American kitchen centered on the region’s agricultural and Great Lakes pantry. The cooking is rooted close to home, with a career tied to the same restaurant and a point of view shaped by place.

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    The Essentials - Blakeslee is a native of Traverse City. - Her style favors complex, globally inspired flavors. - On local food work, she has said: “At the Cook’s House, I’ve seen the benefits of MLUI’s local food work first hand.”

    Signature

    Jennifer's signature dishes include lake trout and grilled asparagus.

    In Their Words “Their efforts to promote local food and agriculture has had tangible benefits for farmers, schools, restaurants, and the entire regional economy.” “At the Cook’s House, I’ve seen the benefits of MLUI’s local food work first hand.”

    ii

    FAQ

    Asked of Jennifer

    • What is Jennifer Blakeslee's current role?

      As of 2026, Jennifer Blakeslee is Co-owner.

    • What is Jennifer Blakeslee known for?

      Complex, globally inspired flavors.

    • What recognition has Jennifer Blakeslee received?

      James Beard Award, Best Chef: Great Lakes finalist (2025).

    The Sunday email

    Read about chefs like Jennifer Blakeslee in the Sunday email.

    Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.

    See a sample of the Sunday email

    Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.