2016 James Beard Semifinalists Announced


The big list of James Beard semifinalists for chefs and restaurants for 2016 has been released and Philadelphia makes a strong showing. Highlighting the nominees is Fork which is nominated for Best Restaurant. Fork chef Eli Kulp, who was seriously injured in last May’s Amtrak crash is also nominated best chef Mid-Atlantic.

Eight chefs from the Philadelphia area are nominated for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic including:

 

Other local nominees include:

  • Stephen Starr, Starr Restaurants, Outstanding Restaurateur
  • Michael Solomonov of Zahav, Outstanding Chef
  • Marc Vetri of Vetri, Outstanding Chef
  • Alex Bois of Fork, Rising Star of the Year
  • Kate Jacoby, Vedge, Outstanding Pastry Chef
  • Andre Chin and Amanda Eap, Artisan Boulanger Patissier, Outstanding Baker
  • Sam Calagione of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Outstanding Wine, Beer, or Spirits Professional
  • Zahav, Outstanding Service
  • Olde Bar, Outstanding Bar Program
  • Tired Hands Fermentaria, Outstanding Bar Program

The finalists are announced on Tuesday, March 15th and the winners will be named at a gala event in Chicago on Monday, May 2nd.

James Beard Awards [Official]