St. Louis-Area Restaurants and Chefs Among Semifinalists for James Beard Awards
The culinary world is buzzing with anticipation as the James Beard Foundation announces the semifinalists for its annual restaurant awards. Among the contenders for this prestigious honor are several St. Louis-area restaurants and chefs, showcasing the city’s thriving dining scene.
Best Chef: Midwest Category
Three talented chefs from the St. Louis metro area have been named semifinalists in the highly competitive “Best Chef: Midwest” category. Rob Connoley of Bulrush in Grand Center, Loryn Nalic of Balkan Treat Box in Webster Groves, and Philip Day of Root Food + Wine in Augusta have all made the cut.
For Connoley, this is his third consecutive year as a semifinalist, a testament to his consistent culinary excellence. Nalic, who was also a semifinalist last year and in 2020, continues to impress with her innovative approach to Balkan cuisine. Day, on the other hand, is a first-time semifinalist for Root Food + Wine, which he opened just last year. Overwhelmed by the news, Day expressed his disbelief, stating, “It’s a dream, definitely, to…be nominated. But, you know, you never really think that something like that will actually happen.”
Best New Restaurant Category
Two St. Louis establishments have been recognized as semifinalists in the “Best New Restaurant” category nationwide. Mainlander, located in the Central West End, and Sado, situated on the Hill, have both made a significant impact on the local dining scene.
Mainlander, opened by chef/owner Blake Askew and his partner, Gordon Chen, in July, has quickly gained recognition as one of the city’s top dining destinations. In fact, it was named the No. 1 new restaurant of 2023 by a prominent restaurant critic. Sado, owned by Nick Bognar and his family, opened its doors in March and has already garnered attention for its exceptional cuisine. Bognar, a semifinalist last year for “Best Chef: Midwest” with his first restaurant, Indo, has once again proven his culinary prowess.
Outstanding Bakery Category
La Patisserie Chouquette, located in the Botanical Heights neighborhood, has been named a semifinalist for “Outstanding Bakery” nationwide. This is the second consecutive year that Simone Faure’s bakery has received this prestigious recognition. Known for its delectable pastries and exquisite creations, La Patisserie Chouquette continues to delight customers with its exceptional offerings.
Outstanding Restaurateur Category
Take Root Hospitality, the partnership of Michael and Tara Gallina and Aaron Martinez, has been named a semifinalist for the second year in a row in the “Outstanding Restaurateur” category nationwide. The group operates Vicia, Winslow’s Table, and Bistro La Floraison, all of which have received critical acclaim.
Vicia, in particular, has been recognized as a semifinalist for “Best New Restaurant” in 2018, as well as for “Best Bar Program” and “Best Wine Program” in 2022. Michael Gallina himself has been a semifinalist for “Best Chef: Midwest” in previous years, further solidifying his reputation as a culinary master.
Other Semifinalists
Outside of the St. Louis metro area, Scratch Brewing Co. in Ava, Illinois, has been named a semifinalist for “Outstanding Bar.” Known for its innovative approach to brewing and its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, Scratch Brewing Co. has become a favorite among beer enthusiasts.
The James Beard Foundation will announce the award finalists on April 3, building up the excitement even further. The winners will be revealed on June 10 at a ceremony in Chicago, where the culinary world will gather to celebrate the best of the best.
As the St. Louis dining scene continues to flourish, these semifinalists serve as a testament to the city’s culinary prowess. With their exceptional talent and dedication to their craft, these chefs and restaurants have put St. Louis on the map as a culinary destination worth exploring.
