It’s no secret, Philadelphia is a culinary heaven! Undoubtedly, the city is rich in culture with an authenticity all its own. This same gusto easily transcends into Philly’s restaurant scene. A foodie paradise, it’s no surprise 10 Philadelphians are semifinalists for the coveted 2024 James Beard Award.
What Is The James Beard Award?
Firstly, The James Beard Award is a prestigious culinary recognition given to chefs, restaurateurs, and writers in the food and beverage industry. It was named after the famous American chef and food writer, James Beard. Since 1990, the award honors excellence in cooking, dining experiences, and food media.
Markedly, semifinalist were announced Wednesday and Philadelphia easily dominated the list.
“It’s basically the Oscar’s equivalent to the restaurant industry, so this is the biggest award they can be given out,” Frank Kinyon of a.kitchen+bar explained to abc6.
Indeed, it is most definitely the Academy Awards of the restaurant industry.
Who Are The Philadelphia Semifinalists?
Semifinalists for The James Beard Award includes not only local veterans, but also some newcomers. Additionally, it also includes restaurants in the surrounding areas including New Jersey and Delaware.
The Semifinalist are as follows:
- Outstanding Chef presented by Hilton- Dionicio Jiménez, Cantina La Martina, Philadelphia, PA
- Emerging Chef presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Mineral Water-Yun Fuentes, Bolo, Philadelphia, PA
- Best New Restaurant-My Loup, Philadelphia, PA
- Outstanding Bakery-Isgro Pastries, Philadelphia, PA
- Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program-a.kitchen+ a.bar, Philadelphia, PA
- Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (DC, DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA)- Carlos Aparicio, El Chingon, Philadelphia, PA; Jesse Ito, Royal Sushi & Izakaya, Philadelphia, PA; Randy Rucker, River Twice, Philadelphia, PA; Omar Tate, Honeysuckle Provisions, Philadelphia, PA; Dane DeMarco, Gass & Main, Haddonfield, NJ; and Matt Kern, One Coastal, Fenwick Island, DE
When Will The Winner Be Announced?
Finalists will be announced on April 3rd, 2024. The winners of the 2024 James Beard Award will be crowned victorious June 10, 2024.