Several Missouri restaurants are in the running for the prestigious James Beard Awards, showcasing the state’s culinary talent and diversity.
St. Louis: Missouri is seriously stepping up its food game. The James Beard Awards just announced their semifinalists, and guess what? Missouri is well-represented!
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards, which celebrate top talent in the culinary world. They also focus on equity and sustainability, which is pretty cool.
Several restaurants and chefs from Missouri are in the mix across seven categories. Let’s dive into who made the cut!
First up, we have Gerard Craft from St. Louis, nominated for Outstanding Restaurateur. His Niche Food Group includes some local favorites like Brasserie and Pastaria.
Then there’s Jane Sacro Chatham from Vicia, also in St. Louis, who’s up for Emerging Chef. Her restaurant is all about seasonal Midwestern dishes.
And don’t forget Nathaniel Reid Bakery in Kirkwood, which is nominated for Outstanding Bakery. They whip up everything from croissants to cakes!
In Kansas City, Helen Jo Leach is recognized as an Outstanding Pastry Chef at The Town Company, while JJ’s Restaurant is in the running for their beverage program.
Also, Natasha Bahrami from The Gin Room in St. Louis and Alisha Blackwell-Calvert from Madrina in Webster Groves are both nominated for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service.
For Best Chef in the Midwest, we have a strong lineup: Nick Bognar from Sado in St. Louis, Johnny Leach from The Town Company, and Katie Liu-Sung from Chewology in Kansas City, among others.
Final nominees will be revealed in April, with the awards ceremony happening in June in Chicago. If you want to check out the full list and learn more about the James Beard Foundation, head over to their website.
Aarik Danielsen, the features and culture editor for the Tribune, is the one sharing this news. You can reach him at adanielsen@columbiatribune.com or find him on Twitter/X @aarikdanielsen.
This article first appeared in the Columbia Daily Tribune, highlighting how Missouri restaurants are making waves at the James Beard Awards.
