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Chicago Hosts Lookalike Contest Inspired by The Bear
A recent revelation from a fine dining chef highlights a unique connection between the culinary world and popular culture. Following a patron’s inquiry about the acclaimed TV series The Bear, the chef recounted a colleague’s unusual policy: questions about the show require patrons to buy shots for the entire restaurant staff.
As preparations ramp up for the anticipated release of Season 4 in the summer of 2025, some residents of Chicago seem to be feeling a bit weary of the series’ focus on the lives of Carmy and Sydney. Nevertheless, a teaser reel from FX released earlier this month showcased quick glimpses from the upcoming season, featuring notable appearances from Ayo Edebiri, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Jeremy Allen White. The prevailing sentiment about the show, however, seemed irrelevant during a spirited weekend in Humboldt Park, where around 50 participants donned costumes resembling Carmy, all vying for a prize of $50 and a pack of Marlboros.
Following a recent surge in lookalike competitions honoring various celebrities, the Windy City hosted its own event on November 16, centered on Jeremy Allen White, the actor who brings Carmy to life. Flyers promoting the contest had sprung up all over the city, creating buzz among fans.
While White himself was absent from the contest, the excitement was palpable as Chicago’s media captured the festivities. The vibrant atmosphere was enhanced by participants clad in autumn attire, many of whom held signs with the phrase “Yes, chef,” and even a toddler dressed in a miniature version of Carmy’s outfit.
The title of winner went to Ben Shabad, who not only received a trophy and a crown but also found support from notable figures in the culinary scene. His stepbrother, Josh Kulp, co-chef and co-owner of Honey Butter Fried Chicken, played a crucial role in encouraging Shabad to enter the competition.
“Josh was instrumental in this process. He was the first to tell me about the competition and provided me with a blue apron to wear,” Shabad noted in a text. “Without his assistance and support, my weekend would have been uneventful.”
Shabad, a 37-year-old mental health therapist from Glenview, has attracted media attention from outlets such as the Sun-Times, Tribune, and BBC, but he affirmed he has no plans to leave his primary vocation.
“The last few days have been a whirlwind. I didn’t anticipate this level of attention, so I’m simply trying to embrace the experience,” Shabad expressed via text.
Kulp, who is a fan of the show, expressed pride in his stepbrother’s success and noted that convincing Shabad to participate wasn’t difficult.
“I’ve always pointed out his resemblance to Carmy. When I learned about the contest, I quickly reached out to him, assuring him that he had a great chance of winning,” Kulp shared.
Following his victory, Shabad was celebrated by the crowd, who hoisted him onto their shoulders. Interestingly, rather than indulging in the classic Chicago Italian beef sandwich, Shabad returned to the suburbs to enjoy dinner at Lefty’s Pizza Kitchen in Wilmette.
“The competition was intense—some of the other contestants bore a striking resemblance to him,” Shabad remarked. “But the atmosphere was friendly; we all felt like we were part of one big team and have kept in touch since.”
Despite pleasant temperatures hovering around 50 degrees, the event lacked an amusing aspect that some might have hoped for: an underwear competition.
As for the cigarettes that accompanied his victory, Shabad quipped, “Ideally, I’d love to share them with Jeremy Allen White.”
Source
chicago.eater.com