In the United States, few chefs have taken on the challenge of elevating German food to unforeseen heights. German cooking in America has long been identified with "the old country," the way it's interpreted in certain homes and restaurants. This association has led to the misconception that the cuisine is bland, heavy and uninspired. Jeremy Nolen, Executive chef of Brauhaus Schmitz, #12 ranked restaurant by Philadelphia Magazine, Wursthaus Schmitz, a German delicatessen and sausage store, and Whetstone Restaurant & Bar has spent most of his life in the restaurant industry. A native of Reading, PA, he is the son of an acclaimed chef and has been surrounded by German food due to the local heritage in Berks County. A three time Best of Philly winner with Brauhaus Schmitz, his recipes have been featured in Food & Wine, Food Republic, and the Daily Meal as well as his own website, New German Cooking. Star Chefs Rising Star Chef 2013Philadelphia Magazine "Best of Philly 2010" winner PretzelPhiladelphia Magazine "Best of Philly 2012" winner SausagePhiladelphia Magazine "Best of Philly 2013" winner Best GermanPhiladelphia Magazine's One of Philadelphia's Must Try DishesPhiladelphia Eater 2012 - 2014 "38 Essential Restaurants in Philadelphia"Philadelphia Inquirer rated 2 bells, Very GoodRecipe Contributor, Food & Wine Magazine, Food Republic, The Daily MealTelevision appearances, Fox Good Morning show, PHL17's Eye Opener, NBC's Foodies