You’ve doubtless heard the term “out to lunch” as used to describe someone who’s not fully engaged in what they are doing; just going through the motions.

In contrast to that I’d like to add the phrase to the verbal pantheon “out to dinner” to describe someone deeply savoring each and every bite with great attention and awareness; someone truly alive to all the sensual possibilities and satisfactions that only a great meal can provide.

Do you remember the first time you had corn on the cob cooked up and buttered only minutes after it was harvested? Your first cream puff, bursting at the seams, swirls of chocolate drizzled pastry brushing your nose? The thrilling sinus rush of wasabi harmonizing with the buttery notes of fresh tekkamaki? The intoxicating scent of Vidalia onions caramelizing on the grill?

Then you’ve been fortunate enough to have that “out to dinner” experience.

Recognized for giving many people that “out to dinner” feeling early in their careers, these chefs were named the 2008 Best New Chefs in America by Food & Wine. Seeking to discover tomorrow’s superstar chefs in the making, Food & Wine’s previous awardees included Thomas Keller in 1988, Nobu Matsuhisa in 1989, and Rick Bayless in 1988.