Michelin-starred chef accused of attempted murder

A Michelin-starred chef is facing allegations of aggravated battery and attempted murder for attacking a woman, resulting in serious facial injuries.

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.

According to WPEC West Palm Beach, he 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.

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

Police allege she was the victim of a sustained two-hour assault.

On June 12, prosecutors filed charges for attempted second-degree murder and false imprisonment. Mr Bickelhaupt pleaded not guilty.

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.

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

Bickelhaupt remains in Palm Beach County Jail. His next hearing is scheduled for 7 July.