Hot Off the Press! The 2024 James Beard Award Semi-Finals: Minnesotans Recognized
Exciting news alert! The 2024 James Beard Award semi-finalists are in, and we’ve got all the mouthwatering details you need! đ´ đ #JamesBeardAwards #FoodieFinds
Minneapolis, Minnesota – Greetings, food enthusiasts and epicureans! It’s that time of the year when the culinary world is abuzz with excitement, as the prestigious James Beard Award semi-finalist list for 2024 has just been unveiled. Pour yourself a cup of your favorite brew, because we’re diving headfirst into this delicious revelation…and finding out how Minnesota is taking the spotlight with these amazing restaurants in Minneapolis and St. Paul!
Outstanding Chef, National
Daniel del Prado for Porzana
Hold onto your hats, Twin Cities! The remarkable Daniel del Prado, with roots as humble as can be, has made it to the big leagues. From his Argentinian beginnings to the culinary sensation we know today, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. He’s a force of nature, and we’re fortunate to have him right here in our neck of the woods. Can he take on the coastal giants? We’re about to find out! Cheers to the diners who have faithfully followed del Prado on this extraordinary culinary adventure.
Best New Restaurant (Nationally)
Oro by Nixta, by Gustavo Romero and Kate Romero
Northeast Minneapolis is in for a treat! Gustavo and Kate Romero, the dynamic duo on a Michelin-star-seeking mission, have snagged a nomination for the best new restaurant in the nation. Their mastery of exciting flavors and their dedication to exploring Indigenous corn varieties deserve recognition on a global scale. Get ready, world, because you’re about to savor something truly exceptional.
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker (Nationally)
Marc Heu, Marc Heu Patisserie Paris
Step into Marc Heu’s world, and you’ll see a rising star. The moment you walk into his Frogtown haven, you can sense his international stardom on the horizon. This win is not just for him but also for the Hmong community, for bakers who start without ovens, for sheer hard work, and love. St. Paul, you’ve been champions in supporting this creative and ambitious couple. And let’s not forget Gaosong Heu, the business and marketing genius behind the scenes. Every chef needs a Gaosong!
For Outstanding Bar (Nationally)
Meteor Bar, by Robb Jones and Tyler Kleinow
Hold the phone! The transformation of the old dive bar Stand Up Franks into a nationally nominated bar by Robb Jones and Tyler Kleinow is like hearing The Replacements are playing at the White House. It’s monumental! Kudos to Meteor for staying true to their punk rock Minneapolis vision of ‘an old ass bar with good ass drinks.’ Just a friendly reminder, drinks-tourists, don’t make it impossible for Steph March to find a barstool!
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Best Chef Midwest: The Future is Female!
In a category where we usually dominate, the Midwest shines brightly, and it’s all about the ladies this year! Lucia Watson and Brenda Langton, you laid the foundation, and now it’s time for the women chefs of the Twin Cities to steal the spotlight.
- Ann Ahmed, Khaluna: A restaurant that stole our hearts in 2023. Congrats, Chef Ahmed, for putting Lao cuisine on the map!
- Lisa Carlson and Carrie Summer, Chef Shack Bay City: Pioneers of Minneapolis’s first-ever food truck and nurturers of female talent. Absolute stars in our food community!
- Christina Nguyen, Hai Hai: A culinary virtuoso, and Hai Hai is a true gem. We’re lucky to have it, and Christina Nguyen makes our community better with her greatness.
- Karyn Tomlinson, Myriel: In a world of flash and dazzle, Myriel is a peaceful oasis. Let’s give Karyn the recognition she deserves for her elegant work.
2024: A Year of Promise
Minneapolis and St. Paul have a future that’s diverse, accomplished, and quintessentially ‘us.’ Congratulations to all the nominees! As we embrace 2024, let’s savor the culinary delights that our vibrant community has to offer. Cheers to a very good year ahead!
