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On a recent radio show, when asked about the local James Beard Foundation chef nominees for 2013—namely Gerard Craft and Kevin Nashan—I remarked that I thought this was Craft’s year.
Think about it. In 2012, Gerard Craft's in the CWE continued its upward trajectory, in the local as well as national spotlight; Niche moved—and very successfully, by all counts—to Clayton; and arguably the most anticipated restaurant of 2012—Pastaria—ended up on many lists (including mine) as the best restaurant to open last year. It may be the stellar success of Pastaria that gives Craft the extra push to come out on top.
In addition, chefs who get nominated multiple times tend to win on latter nominations. This was Craft’s fourth nomination as a finalist for Best New Chef: Midwest (he's been a semi-finalist five times).
Chef winners will be announced at JBF's annual awards gala in New York City, held this year on Monday, May 6.
Best of luck to you, Gerard Craft. May you prove my hunch correct.
(It should go without saying that props go as well to Kevin Nashan of Sidney Street Cafe, a multiple JBF nominee himself and one of this city's better ambassadors, better guys, and best chefs.)
Craft photo by Kevin A. Roberts
