Often dubbed the “culinary Oscars,” the James Beard Awards honor the best in the restaurant and chef community. When the semifinalists for the 2023 awards were announced two months ago, St. Louis was well-represented, with a restaurant group, a gin-themed bar, a French pastry shop, and three chefs all making the prestigious list.
This morning, however, when the finalists were announced (with five nominees per category), none of the St. Louis nominees advanced to the final round. (Similarly, last year, St. Louis had six nominations, but none advanced.)
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Among the semifinalists for the “Best Chef: Midwest” category this year:
- Nick Bognar, indo
- Rob Connoley, Bulrush
- Loryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box
In the nationwide categories:
- Outstanding Bakery: Simone Faure, La Patisserie Chouquette
- Outstanding Bar: Natasha Bahrami, The Gin Room
- Outstanding Restaurateur: Take Root Hospitality (owned by Michael and Tara Gallina and Aaron Martinez)
The winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant & Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 5, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
