Chefs Debate Gen Z's Impact on Fine Dining

In a CULTURED magazine roundtable, five chefs—Dominique Crenn (61, Atelier Crenn), Matthew Kammerer (37, Harbor House Inn), E.J. Lagasse (23, Emeril's), Flynn McGarry (27, Cove), and Charlie Mitchell (34, Saga)—discuss how Gen Z is reshaping fine dining. They explore whether younger diners have patience for long tasting menus, the role of social media and food photography, the changing definition of luxury, and the tension between tradition and evolution. Crenn argues that luxury is now about knowledge and presence, while Kammerer emphasizes integrity and smaller-scale experiences. McGarry notes shorter attention spans and a shift toward validation over learning. Lagasse sees a desire for flexibility but also continued interest in full experiences. Mitchell believes real-life experiences remain valued. The chefs also address the financial challenges of fine dining, with Kammerer observing fewer diners in their early 20s and Lagasse noting people are going out less. Crenn calls for rethinking the architecture of fine dining to protect its values—craft, knowledge, responsibility, human dignity, and hospitality—rather than the format. The conversation highlights a generational shift toward meaning, authenticity, and presence over ceremony and excess.