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!