The James Beard Awards are coming in May, and today the foundation announced the semifinalists, with many local restaurants deservedly on the list.
Chris Pandel's Balena and Curtis Duffy's Grace are in the running for Best New Restaurant. For Outstanding Bar Program, The Aviary and The Violet Hour made the cut. Paul Kahan (Blackbird) is in the semifinals for Outstanding Chef, and Patrick Fahy (Sixteen) for Outstanding Pastry Chef.
In Outstanding Restaurant, Naha and Spiaggia are up for the prestigious award. Donnie Madia (One Off Hospitality) is a semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurateur. Other semifinalists include Topolobampo (Outstanding Service), Sepia (Outstanding Wine Program), and a trio of Rising Star Chef of the Year candidates (Jimmy Bannos Jr., Matthew Kirkley, David Posey.)
The James Beard Awards take place May 3 and 6 in New York, the finalists will be announced March 18.
· All Coverage of Awards Season [~ECHI~]
· James Beard Foundation [Official Site]