Restaurant stripped of Michelin star and closed after chef faces attempted murder charge

The Staff Canteen

A Michelin-starred restaurant in America has closed following its owner Jacob Bickelhaupt, being charged with attempted murder.

Jacob Bickelhaupt, 41 is the owner and chef of Michelin-starred Konro in West Palm Beach, Florida, and previously co-owned 42 Grams, another Michelin star restaurant in Chicago.

After relocating to West Palm Beach in 2022 and opening Konro, he earned a Michelin star in April 2025.

According to WPEC West Palm Beach, Mr Bickelhaupt was arrested on June 2 following allegations of aggravated battery causing bodily harm or disability and battery causing bodily harm after a violent two-hour attack on a woman, resulting in severe facial injuries and a subdural hematoma requiring emergency surgery.

Read more: Michelin-starred chef accused of attempted murder

She also had two black eyes, facial swelling and bruising from her shoulders down to wrists.

It is also reported that Mr Bickelhaupt attempted to contact his victim to request

money to pay for the bail while in jail.

CBS12  previously reported that Mr Bickelhaupt allegedly contacted the victim from jail, violating a no-contact order issued by the court. Authorities say he left voicemails asking for help posting bail and requesting that she speak to his public defender. These communications led to additional charges of witness tampering.

Initially charged with aggravated battery and battery causing bodily harm, Mr Bickelhaupt now faces upgraded charges of attempted second degree murder and false imprisonment. He remains in custody with a bond set at nearly $100,000.

Konro was also removed from the Michelin Guide prior to the closure.

The website for the former restaurant has also been taken down.

It was also discovered that, in 2017, Mr Bickelhaupt pleaded guilty to domestic violence against his ex-wife in Chicago, leading to the closure of 42 Grams.

The trial continues.

written by abi kinsella

Contribute to TSC!

 

Small Contribution. Big Impact.

The Staff Canteen has always been more than a website—it’s a community, built by and for hospitality. We share the wins, the challenges, the graft, and the inspiration that keeps kitchens alive.

We believe in staying open to everyone, but creating this content takes real resources. If you’ve ever found value here—whether it’s a recipe, an interview, or a laugh when you needed it most—consider giving just £3 to keep it going.

 

A little from you keeps this space free for all. Let’s keep lifting the industry, together.

The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 7th August 2025

Restaurant stripped of Michelin star and closed after chef faces attempted murder charge