Chef Shawn Wamsley of Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse (4751 Owen Ayers Court, Eau Claire) is the man cooking up everything on the menu from steaks to pasta and even desserts! With so many options to choose from, you’ll need to visit Johnny’s a few times to sample everything Shawn can create. Get a taste of the Big Easy at Stella Blues (306 E. Madison St., Eau Claire), where Chef Jason Shafer gives locals his own twist on dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and cornbread. Chef Séverine Stein works behind the counter every day at The Nostalgic Bean (1403 Lynn Avenue, Altoona) whipping up sweet treats that complement the coffee. Don’t believe it? You will once you try her croissants, macarons, and many varieties of tarts.–Caitlin Boyle