Florida’s Culinary Forces Shine

James Beard was anointed the “Dean Of American Cookery” by The New York Times in 1954. His curiosity, passion and expertise in the kitchen (and beyond) helped lay the groundwork for the American culinary revolution. The James Beard Awards began in 1991 to recognize and celebrate influential members of the culinary world in the U.S. 

This year’s semifinalists were announced Wed. Feb 23. Since 2010, only two Florida nominees have been honored by the James Beard Award — Bern’s Steak House, for its Outstanding Wine program and  Michael Schwartz for Best Chef. Another nominee is Jeremy Ford from Stubborn Seed, whom we had the pleasure of chatting with in our Chef Profile.

 With all the extraordinary culinary talent Florida has to offer, we are pleased to see 12 nominations.  

In Miami: 

Outstanding Chef: Michael Schwartz from Michael's Genuine Food & Drink 

Outstanding Baker: Zak Stern from Zak The Baker 

Outstanding Pastry Chef: Antonio Bachour from Bachour  

Outstanding Bar Program: Café La Trova  

Best Chef; Valerie, Nando and Fernando Chang from Itamae, Michael Priolo at Macchialina, Jeremy Ford from Stubborn Seed, Niven Patel from Ghee Indian Kitchen 

Best New Restaurant: Zitz Sum  

In Palm Beach:  

Best Chef: Clay Conley from Buccan 

In Orlando 

Outstanding Restaurateur: Jason and Sue Chin from Good Salt Restaurant Group  

Outstanding Pastry Chef: Rabii Saber from the Four Seasons 

Outstanding Baker: Evette Rahman from Sister Honey’s 

The winners of the James Beard Award will be announced Jun. 13th at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Check back in with us to see who took home the gold!