Justin Bernatchez

About Justin:

For more than 10 years, Executive Chef Justin Bernatchez has helped shape LaBelle Winery into one of New Hampshire’s premier culinary destinations. He oversees the culinary operations for Americus Restaurant, The Bistro, weddings, corporate events, wine dinners, festivals, and public events while leading a team of approximately 20 culinary professionals.

Justin continually evolves menus, encourages his sous chefs to contribute new ideas, and has helped grow food sales across every area of the business. This year, he helped launch The Winemaker’s Kitchen Food Truck, creating a new way for winery guests to enjoy fresh, scratch-made food during their visit. His commitment to excellence has also earned him the distinction of being voted Best Chef in New Hampshire in the New Hampshire Union Leader Readers’ Choice Awards for two consecutive years. 

The "Spark" that Makes Justin a Shining Star of the Industry:

Justin Bernatchez is an exceptional chef, but more importantly, he is an exceptional leader, mentor, educator, and ambassador for New Hampshire’s hospitality industry. For more than a decade, he has helped build LaBelle Winery’s culinary reputation while mentoring young chefs, teaching monthly cooking classes, and creating memorable experiences for thousands of guests each year.

Over the years, Justin has led the culinary experience for countless weddings, public events, and nationally recognized dinners featuring celebrated culinary icons such as Jacques Pépin and Christopher Kimball and others. Whether serving distinguished guests or first-time visitors, he brings the same passion, precision, and genuine hospitality to every plate.

Despite being recognized as the New Hampshire Union Leader Readers’ Choice Best Chef for two consecutive years, Justin remains humble, approachable, and deeply passionate about his craft. He believes great food is only part of hospitality—the real magic comes from connecting with people. That philosophy is reflected in the way he leads his team, mentors future chefs, and personally engages with guests every day. Justin is truly deserving of the NHLRA Chef of the Year Award.

On Winning Chef of the Year:

"Winning this award is such an honor. Just being named a finalist is a huge honor but actually winning makes me so proud of the efforts and all the time put into my craft. To share the award with everyone at LaBelle that assists in making our restaurants and events the best in NH. It is so great to be named best chef and be able to show people that we can provide excellent dining experiences in southern NH and that you don't have to travel to the big cities to have great food and wine."