Updated 2023: Texas Chefs Featured in James Beard Awards
Discover > Best Of Texas > Updated 2023: Texas Chefs Featured in James Beard Awards
Established in 1990, the James Beard Awards has a particular mission: to "recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive."
Last year was a big one for Texas-born chefs and restaurants as the James Beard Foundation released its most diverse roster. The 2022 ceremony saw a plethora of Lone Star awardees, chosen after carefully considering culinary excellence from all corners of the state. It's been nothing short of inspiring to see so many deserving chefs included in the foundation's semifinalist list, with commendations going out to those who have made genuine strides in their craft and furthered the culinary excellence established in Texas.
The semifinalist list for 2023 is sure to carry on that success and recognition with a fantastic showcase of remarkable achievements from chefs and restaurants around the state. It will be exciting to look forward to a continuation of showcasing fine cuisine from some of Texas' top culinary talent. Nominees will be announced on Wednesday, March 29, and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 5, 2023, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
Round-Up: Texas James Beard Award Semi-Finalists
Celebrate the culinary talent of Texas with a round-up of James Beard Award semi-finalists, highlighting the chefs and establishments shaping the state's gastronomic landscape.
Read on for more of the 2023 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists from Texas below:
Outstanding Restaurant
La Condesa
Austin, TX
La Condesa is an exciting, James Beard-nominated restaurant that exquisitely blends the flavors of Mexico City and Austin. With the expertise of Executive Chef Rick Lopez, the menu is full of fresh and locally sourced ingredients prepared in luxurious interior Mexican dishes.
La Condesa also offers a bar experience that can't be beaten as they claim one of the largest collections of 100% blue agave tequila and mezcal in town, recently named as a Finalist for Best Tequila Selection on the Austin Chronicle Best of Austin Restaurant List 2022. Located in Austin's vibrant 2nd Street District, this modern Mexican restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking delectable fare with a twist.
Website: https://lacondesa.com
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Lucia
Dallas, TX
Lucia is a one-of-a-kind Italian restaurant in Dallas. Every dish on the menu is made from scratch, with ingredients sourced locally and organic whenever possible. Standout items include their handmade pasta (how long does pasta last?) dishes, which feature classic Italian recipes reinvented with fresh seasonal ingredients.
Their house-cured salumi is equally impressive - unique flavors run through every cured meat. The salumi board includes prosciutto, speck, and lonza, all aged to perfection. A visit to Lucia offers diners an authentic Italian dining experience with all the excitement of discovering new flavor combinations.
Website: https://www.luciadallas.com
Best New Restaurant
Don Artemio
Fort Worth, TX
Don Artemio is the place to go for those looking to experience an upscale version of Mexican gastronomy. This unique culinary space recreates the flavors of northeastern Mexico with more contemporary adaptations. Its architectural design is strongly inspired by the traditional clay brick houses in Saltillo, Mexico, incorporating elements such as the iconic Sarape de Saltillo and wines from Coahuila for an immersive experience.
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The best is that their food does not compromise on quality or authenticity - local ingredients from Fort Worth and northeast Mexico are used to provide dishes featuring kid goats, nopales, and red hawthorn. It's the perfect way to enjoy an authentic taste of Mexico!
Website: https://www.donartemio.us
Restaurant Beatrice
Dallas, TX
Restaurant Beatrice seeks to capture the unique culture of Louisiana through its food and service. Their chefs understand the importance of sustainability and work hard to source their ingredients locally while minimizing waste. This commitment is reflective of Cajun cuisine and Louisiana's approach to community. The restaurant's success has been noticed. It recently won the Dallas Eater's "Restaurant of the Year" Award and D Magazine's "Best New Restaurant" award in 2022. They were even nominated by the James Beard Foundation for "Best New Restaurant" in America.
Restaurant Beatrice is proud to be on the path toward B-Corp Certification. This certification recognizes businesses that prioritize social and environmental change.
Website: https://restaurantbeatrice.com
Tatsu
Dallas, TX
In the historic Continental Gin Building, Tatsu Dallas offers a one-of-a-kind omakase experience featuring Executive Chef and Owner Tatsuya Sekiguchi's traditional, edomae-style sushi. Recently named a semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant in the Country by none other than the James Beards foundation, their intimate omakase room allows less than twenty guests a night to sample from an exquisite tasting menu consisting of appetizers, nigiri sushi, hand rolls, miso soup, and dessert.
For each seating that takes place six days a week for about one hour and forty-five minutes, guests can interact with Chef Tatsu firsthand as he demonstrates how delicious and intricate edomae-style sushi is crafted. So make your reservations soon, and you will be delighted by all this esteemed establishment has to offer!
Website: https://www.tatsu-dallas.com
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Discover a selection of Texas restaurants that not only offer delicious meals but also prioritize health, making it easy to enjoy nutritious and flavorful dining experiences.
TatemĂł
Houston, TX
TATEMĂ is on a mission to restore the cultural and nutritional value of maĂz in Houston, TX, by showcasing the immense diversity of heirloom corn from various parts of Mexico. Every product they create, such as tortillas or other masa products, is made only with nixtamalized corn with no additives or colorants, representing authentic Mexican culture and traditional cuisine.
Their goal is not only to raise consciousness about healthier and more sustainable nutrition but also to remind people of the importance that this ancient foodstuff holds for Mexican identity. A rich culinary heritage that must be kept alive!
Outstanding Bakery
La Casita Bakeshop
Richardson, TX
Maricsa has always been proud of her heritage and wanted to give it a special place in her business - La Casita Bakeshop. She found the perfect way to express it in the name, inspired by her mother's habit of adding "-ita" to words for things she deemed cute. Even for her most French-inspired creations, the baked treats are infused with Maricsa's Hispanic roots! From pastelitos to Ă©clairs, each item has a little piece of her cultural background mixed in. As customers bite into these delicious treats, they get a taste of Maricsa's family's culture.
Website: https://www.lacasitabakeshop.com
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Kuluntu Bakery
Dallas, TX
Kuluntu Bakery is more than just a place to get freshly baked goods. It is a social mission to create and develop sustainable food systems that strengthen and empower marginalized communities. The bakery is conveniently located near Bishop Arts District in the Oak Cliff district. It provides plenty of delicious treats to support its cause. More importantly, Kuluntu Bakery seeks to use baking as an entryway to dismantle patriarchal structures inside and outside the food and beverage industry.
When we actively consider these topics, there's an opportunity to create meaningful spaces focused on fostering belongingness and inclusivity, which help build a sense of community amongst everyone involved.
Website: https://kuluntubakery.org
Outstanding Hospitality
The Local
Abilene, TX
At The Local, Justin and Alex Russell wanted to provide something unique to the downtown experience of Abilene, which they found was in a period of significant growth and expansion. As a result, these ambitious restaurateurs have crafted a unique dining experience that is nothing else in the area.
They've made The Local stand out from the crowd by creating an elevated version of Mexican cuisine mixed with classic cocktails and friendly customer service. Bringing flavor and vibrancy to Downtown Abilene, visitors can immediately feel the enthusiasm to be achieved when Justin and Alex had their vision for what would become The Local.
Website: https://www.thelocalabi.com
Theodore Rex
Houston, TX
One of Houston's favorite dining spots, Theodore Rex, gives guests the unique opportunity to enjoy a meal prepared by award-winning chef Justin Yu. Already booked solid weeks in advance, the restaurant still holds several tables for walk-in diners and seats at the bar.
Diners can expect an ever-changing a la carte menu; however, a few of the chef's favorites will remain on rotation for the foreseeable future. One such delicacy is pan con tomate â a treat of thick sliced pain de mie with tomato water, tomato fondant, and a salad of fresh tomatoes. The intimate space features cushiony booths and inviting pillows for diners to relax while enjoying Chef Yu's creations near downtown Houston.
Website: https://trexhouston.com
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Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
Nancy's Hustle
Houston, TX
Nancy's Hustle on Houston's east side is the perfect bistro for any occasion. From intimate date nights to large get-togethers, Nancy's is the place to be if you're looking for delicious dishes with a modern flair. At Nancy's, only the finest ingredients are used to craft culinary delights, like their house-made pasta (how long does pasta last?), seasonal vegetables, and artisanal cheeses. But their menu continues beyond there -- they also offer unique libations like natural wine and classic ciders that pair perfectly with your meal.
With friendly service and an atmosphere full of life, Nancy's Hustle is guaranteed to bring you 'home' no matter what night of the week it is!
Website: https://www.nancyshustle.com
Suerte
Austin, TX
Suerte is an award-winning Mexican restaurant in East Austin, focusing on masa as the cornerstone for all menu items. Led by Chef Fermin and his top-notch team of professionals, this one-of-a-kind restaurant merges traditional Mexican cooking techniques and locally sourced ingredients to offer an incomparable culinary experience.
From carefully curated meals to the bar's glorious selection of agave spirits, natural wines, and craft cocktails, Suerte has something special for everyone looking to explore Mexico's rich culture and flavors. With best-in-class dining options, there is no better place to savor unique and exquisite tastes than Suerte.
Website: https://www.suerteatx.com
Outstanding Bar
Las Ramblas
Brownsville, TX
With an exceptional and easygoing atmosphere, Las Ramblas at Market Square is the perfect spot to enjoy all of your favorite classic cocktails in the heart of Brownsville. Those looking to try something new are also sure to find something special here, as they boast a comprehensive menu full of innovative combinations of traditional and modern ingredients. Whether seeking a classic twist or a truly unique experience, Las Ramblas has all the drink you need.
Their warm service and welcoming vibes create an enjoyable space for friends and family alike who want to avoid crowded bars while still enjoying the bar experience. So be sure to visit this comforting Craft Cocktail Lounge in Historic Downtown Brownsville!
Website: https://www.lasramblaslounge.com
Best Chef: Texas
Nicola Blaque
The Jerk Shack, San Antonio, TX
The Jerk Shack family is an inspirational business built on a dream and the tenacity of Chef Nicola Blaque. After setting her sights on a culinary career, she served ten years in the Army. Then she attended the renowned Culinary Institute of America in Hawaii and San Antonio before graduating in 2016.
With the support of her husband, Cornelius Massey, two years later, they opened their flagship restaurant, The Jerk Shack. Their hard work and dedication have paid off with accolades from established industry leaders and rave reviews from happy customers.
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Tavel Bristol-Joseph
Canje, Austin, TX
With six successful restaurants under his belt, Tavel Bristol-Joseph is a professional pastry chef on the rise. Beyond creating exquisite desserts and pastries in award-winning restaurants around Austin, he recently opened his own, Canje. Housed in a vibrant location with distinctive colorful décor, this restaurant embodies Bristol-Joseph's vision. He draws upon his native Guyana to develop an exciting menu that transports diners to another culture. At the same time, they enjoy fresh and flavorful food.
Guests immerse themselves in an immersive environment with lively conversations as everyone discovers Bristol-Joseph's unique culinary creations. With such a remarkable concept and delicious offerings, it's no wonder Tavel Bristol-Joseph is quickly becoming one of Austin's most celebrated chefs.
Damien Brockway
Distant Relatives, Austin, TX
Chef Damien Brockway is revolutionizing Austin's food scene with his barbecue spot, Distant Relatives, in the historical Rosewood neighborhood of East Austin. He was inspired to launch the unique concept after a heartfelt conversation with another cook a few years ago. Now, he serves unique dishes that explore his West African heritage.
Brockway's creative idea celebrates the flavors and ingredients brought by the African diaspora, creating new and exciting experiences for diners of all ages to enjoy. In addition, his skillful blending of international spices adds a bit of magic that can only be found at his one-of-a-kind eatery. This chef has found success in honoring tradition and inspiring innovation all in one place!
Reyna Duong
Sandwich Hag, Dallas, TX
Reyna Duong is proving to be a leader in the restaurant world, setting an example of how businesses can actively work to make space for people of all abilities. As the manager of Sandwich Hag, she has taken it upon herself to create an inclusive workspace where everyone feels accepted and valued. This includes those with Down syndrome, who are often underrepresented in many professional industries.
By providing her team members with a platform to grow professionally and thrive, she is reshaping the landscape of restauranteurs and serving as an inspiration for many others to follow suit. Through her courage and leadership, Reyna is pioneering a more unified future for restaurants everywhere.
Kareem El-Ghayesh
KG BBQ, Austin, TX
Kareem El-Ghayesh's story is an inspiring tale of success against all odds. After spending years working in the finance sector in Egypt, Kareem decided to take a leap of faith and venture out to the United States. In 2016 he made his way to Austin, Texas, where his dreams of running a BBQ restaurant became a reality. After months of careful planning and hard work, KG BBQ opened its doors and quickly rose as one of the top BBQ spots in Austin.
His keen understanding of flavor has gained him recognition throughout the USA and back home in Egypt; after all, who better understands both Texas BBQ and Middle Eastern cuisine? It goes without saying that Kareem El-Ghayesh is an exemplary example of someone who never let fear stand in their way - a true inspiration for us all.
Jalen Heard, Lane Milne, and Jonny White,
Goldee's Barbecue, Fort Worth, TX
Pitmasters Lane Milne, Jalen Heard, and Jonny White of Goldee's BBQ have quickly gotten the attention of barbecue connoisseurs' attention across the nation. They've been dubbed "barbecue royalty" for a good reason - their simple yet tasty barbecues are some of the finest. Goldee's BBQ is a wooden shack tucked away in some corner, but don't let its small size deceive you; it churns out delectable smoked meats (What wine goes well with smoked meats?) and sausages, as well as delicious sandwiches and side dishes to accompany them. If you're looking for superb food served with a partial country charm, look no further than Goldee's BBQ. It's an age-old classic that doesn't skimp on flavors and should definitely be on your next BBQ tour.
Andrew Ho, Andrew Samia, and Sean Wen
Curry Boys BBQ, San Antonio, TX
The foodie world is abuzz with the recent venture combining culinary cultures from the East and West. Sean Wen and Andrew Ho from Pinch Boil House have teamed up with Andrew Samia of South BBQ & Kitchen to create Curry Boys BBQ, which combines the flavors of Southeast Asian-inspired rice bowls topped with Texas-style smoked meats.
This exciting collaboration has created a unique dining experience that will tantalize taste buds worldwide. With an enticing menu of bold flavors, this creative mashup takes traditional elements of both cuisines. Then, it blends them into something distinct and delicious.
Greg Gatlin
Gatlin's BBQ, Houston, TX
Greg Gatlin opened up his unique barbecue eatery, Gatlin's BBQ in the Heights, back in 2010 and has earned a steady stream of loyal patrons through the years. Since 2014, Gatlin's BBQ has moved locations to Oak Forest, where they maintain their status as a popular spot for slow-smoked meats, hearty sides, and savory desserts. The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed, with food that is sure to please each time you visit. From classic rib plates to daily specials, be sure to bring your appetite when visiting Gatlin's BBQ!
Benchawan Jabthong Painter
Street to Kitchen, Houston, TX
Chef Benchawan Jabthong Painter has mastered the art of elevating Thai food (What wine goes well with Thai food?) classics using only locally sourced ingredients at Street to Kitchen. What was once considered a localized cuisine is now experiencing new heights of flavor thanks to Chef Benchawan's innovative approach to cooking.
Adept at incorporating local flora and fauna, traditional spices, and produce into classic Thai dishes, Chef Benchawan's creations showcase the subtle nuances and robust flavor profiles of a historically diverse culture. His work is praised for balancing authenticity with modernity and honoring regional influences by bringing a unique perspective to tradition. With every dish he serves, Chef Benchawan brings pleasure to palates worldwide while remaining true to his Thai roots.
Ai Le
Nam Giao, Houston, TX
Chef Ai Le has found a remarkable way to express gratitude for the country which took him in - Vietnamese cuisine. As he explains, food is like a bridge connecting the unfamiliar with the culture and people of Vietnam.
By creating spectacular versions of traditional dishes, all while keeping prices low, he can provide an accessible point of entry into the culinary delights of his new home country. This creates an opportunity both for lovers of outstanding cuisine and those seeking to gain further understanding and appreciation for the beauty and complexities of Vietnam. In short, Chef Ai Le's selfless approach has become the foundation for sharing this vibrant culture with those around him.
Olivia LĂłpez and Jonathan Percival
Molino OlĆyĆ, Dallas, TX
Olivia Lopez and Jonathan Percival have carved out a special place for themselves in Dallas with the excellent corn-based menu of Molino OlĆyĆ. By taking inspiration from ancient culinary practices, they can present enticing dishes that give diners a unique experience with each visit.
Partnering with local farms and producers, they also make sure to bring fresh ingredients and showcase the culture of their region. This dynamic duo is part of a new wave of chefs who are putting corn in the spotlight and making it into a star ingredient. Through their cooking, Olivia and Jonathan demonstrate how to combine well-loved traditions with modern touches for an extraordinary result.
Enrique Lozano
El Charlatan, Socorro, TX
Enrique Lozano's El Charlatan is the ultimate gastronomical experience combining two tantalizing culinary cuisines. It is a ramen-taqueria in the heart of Texas' very own Socorro. It is already on its way to becoming a beloved local favorite. Here, visitors can expect an array of savory, mouth-watering delights with dishes such as bacon ramen tacos and Tatsu ramen that satisfy even the most sophisticated palates.
Beyond simply offering a delicious menu, the staff at El Charlatan pride themselves on providing friendly service for every customer. Each visit feels like dining with family. If you are seeking a place to tantalize your taste buds with Mexican and Japanese food (What wine goes well with Japanese food?) flavors, look no further than Socorro's El Charlatan.
Emiliano Marentes
ELEMI, El Paso, TX
Emiliano Marentes's teenage years in El Paso were marked by hard work and dedication as he filled the role of tortilleria deliveryman. But what began simply as a job gave him much more than that; it inspired Marentes to pursue the culinary profession, and he soon left El Paso to train as a chef.
Years later, drawn back to his roots by fond memories of handmade tortillas, Marentes returned home to open Elemi, a modern Mexican restaurant designed to honor ancestral culinary traditions through healthy, inventive dishes.
Ana Liz Pulido
Ana Liz Taqueria, Mission, TX
Ana Liz Pulido may still be young, but don't let her age deter you from recognizing her talents. Her taqueria in Mission draws in customers from near and far as they realize the incredible flavor of the authentic Mexican cuisine served within its walls. In fact, many describe going to Ana Liz Taqueria as a pilgrimage; it should not be missed. While some chefs cook to please their customers, Ana Liz goes above and beyond their expectations while staying true to what Mexican food (What wine goes well with Mexican food?) is all about.
Those that have had the pleasure of dining here can attest to her sparkle and genuine hospitality that fills the cozy space. No wonder people are flocking to sample this fantastic cuisine at Ana Liz Taqueria - thanks to the talent of one dedicated, amazing person: owner Ana Liz Pulido.
Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman
José, Dallas, TX
Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman is excited to bring her passion for Mexican cuisine to the people of Dallas as the executive chef behind José. Her devotion and culinary knowledge have made this modern restaurant an instant success with locals and tourists alike. Not content with traditional Mexican fare, Chef Anastacia has managed to infuse a unique twist on all of the dishes served at José, utilizing local ingredients in unexpected and delicious ways.
So whether you're looking for breakfast tacos, street food style tapas, or creative takes on traditional entrees, a visit to José will leave you full and happy, knowing that you've tasted something special created by the inspired Chef Anastacia.
Regino Rojas
Revolver Taco Lounge, Dallas, TX
Dallas is world-renowned for its fantastic food. However, Regino "Gino" Rojas stands out as one of the city's premier chefs. His newest venture, Revolver Gastro Cantina, is situated right next to his original taco restaurant, in Deep Ellum and is being hailed as the best of what the city has to offer. Its combination of grit and panache has even caused James Beard to take notice, nominating Rojas for an award.
The all-inclusive restaurant caters to the hunger for only the finest local cuisine. Gino Rojas continues to be at the forefront of Texas culinary artistry thanks to his inventive flavors and signature style.
John Russ
Clementine, San Antonio, TX
John Russ, one of San Antonio's premier chefs, began his culinary career with inspiration from his grandmother and a formal education in the kitchen. After studying at Delgado Culinary in New Orleans, he worked in prestigious establishments such as The Ritz Carlton and The Capella Group. So when he and his wife moved to San Antonio four years ago, they had beautiful expectations of the city's food community.
John utilized this feeling to offer unique dining experiences by hosting pop-up dinners through Alamo City Provisions. Fast forward four years, and today, due to their creative vision for small plate dining, John & Elise run their own restaurant group - Clementine - that is popular among locals and tourists alike.
Ernest Servantes and David Kirkland
Burnt Bean Co., Seguin, TX
Co-owners Ernest Servantes and David Kirkland celebrated a major accomplishment this month when their one-day serving breakfast for the Burnt Bean landed them a spot on the list of Texas Monthly Magazine's Top 25 New(ish) Taquerias in Texas. This success comes from the heels of the magazine's Top 50 Best BBQ places in Texas, which ranked Burnt Bean No. 4 last year.
Servantes explains that although they are solidified for their delicious barbecue, he has always wanted to create an unforgettable Mexican breakfast experience - something that has drawn people from near and far to visit Seguin. Meanwhile, Kirkland remains grateful and humbled by the recognition, as it has been challenging yet gratifying for both himself and his co-owner.
Kiran Verma
Kiran's, Houston, TX
Considered the "godmother of Indian fine dining," Chef Kiran Verma has single-handedly raised the bar for Indian cuisine. Her eponymous restaurant, which relocated to Houston's Upper Kirby district in January 2017, is an achievement. Kiran's menus blend cultures, philosophies, and techniques; responsibly sourced ingredients ensure exquisite flavors.
In addition to entrées like Kobe beef tikka masala and Nile perch marinated with turmeric and black pepper, guests can enjoy Anari's award-winning wine list of over 300 labels alongside their meal - along with monthly events featuring exceptional wines with Kiran's food. Combining Indian hospitality, French sophistication, and American informality, Chef Kiran makes it possible to experience an unforgettable culinary journey in the city.
Jon Walter
Chez Sami, Wolfforth, TX
Jon Walter's story starts as many do, at home watching cooking shows as a child. But, little did he know that his dream of becoming a chef one day would come true. After a great deal of hard work, Jon Walter has achieved the almost unimaginable: being nominated for the title of Best Chef in Texas by the prestigious James Beard Foundation.
Though it may have been a rocky road, Jon went from passively viewing television cooking shows to managing and running an award-winning French restaurant, taking charge of an incredible culinary journey. Currently awaiting the final verdict, all of Wolfforth can be proud that such talented people call their town their home.
Outstanding Restaurateur
Chris Williams
Lucille's Hospitality Group, Houston, TX
Chef Chris Williams is a master at creating culinary masterpieces. His restaurant, Lucille's Hospitality Group, which is named after his great-grandmother and culinary pioneer, has allowed him to cement his name as one of today's foremost chefs. With classically trained skills in French, Mediterranean, West Indian, and East African cuisine, Chef Williams has come up with delicious Southern-themed dishes that also have international influences. He has combined the best of both worlds in one delicious menu. This earned him national recognition and put him into the spotlight.
As a further testament to his stature as one of the most renowned chefs in the world today, Chef Williams was appointed as the United States' cultural ambassador for three years. Not only did he bring international attention to American cuisine, he also had the opportunity to visit countries like Slovenia, Croatia, and Ukraine to represent US food diplomacy abroad. Most recently, he became a member of the highly respected Southern Food Ways Alliance--an organization dedicated to preserving US culinary history and culture. Absolutely remarkable!
Outstanding Chef
Junior Borges
Meridian, Dallas, TX
Diners looking for a unique culinary experience should explore the exquisite Modern Brazilian cuisine Executive Chef Junior Borges served. Every dish at the Meridian is carefully designed with the freshest seasonal ingredients from Chef's garden. It combines flavors from traditional Brazilian cuisine with elegant modern touches.
Not only does this make for an unforgettable meal, but it also results in mouth-watering dishes that will have you savoring every bite. So, if you're looking for an exotic adventure on your plate, look no further than the creations of Junior Borges!
Christine Ha and Tony J. Nguyen
Xin ChĂ o, Houston, TX
Christine Ha is an impressive Vietnamese-American chef from Houston, Texas, having won the Gordon Ramsay cookoff show "MasterChef" in 2012 despite her visual impairment. Her co-executive chef, Tony John "TJ" Nguyen, has similarities with his Houston hometown, being a second-generation Vietnamese-American. After graduating from Syracuse University with a degree in Hospitality Management and two years of restaurant experience, TJ returned to Houston to open Wokker TX Ranger, a food truck serving Asian-Texan flavors inspired by his culture. The duo team up to create delicious dishes at Xin ChĂ o that are full of flavor that are sure to please any palate!
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Emerging Chef
Victoria Elizondo
Cochinita & Co, Houston, TX
Victoria Elizondo is making a name for herself in Houston, TX, with her restaurant Cochinita & Co. Having already garnered attention from locals and enthusiastic reviews from food critics alike, Chef Elizondo has also made waves in the culinary world as a published author of her acclaimed Taco-Tastic cookbook.
With years of experience working in the restaurant industry, she has created dishes that tantalize taste buds inside and outside Cochinita & Co. Victoria Elizondo is an up-and-coming star in the culinary world.
Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin
Best Quality Daughter, San Antonio, TX
Jennifer Dobbertin is no stranger to innovating new concepts, evident from when she first collaborated on the Asian fusion concept that would become Hot Joy which Bon Appétit then named one of the top ten new restaurants in the nation by 2014. Not content to stay still, she left in 2016 to open Tenko Ramen, the first fast-casual ramen concept in San Antonio, and later addressed the desire to see more Asian-American female chefs in South Texas by developing a new image with fellow chef Anne Ng and artist Jennifer Ling Datchuk called Best Quality Daughter. This was done through a series of pop-up dinners before eventually settling into its home inside the historic Mueller House at The Pearl Brewery.
With her trailblazing work, Dobbertin has demonstrated her capacity to create delicious food and engage ideas, continuing to be an essential part of San Antonio's culture and food scene.
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
Mariela Camacho
Comadre PanaderĂa, Austin, TX
Growing up in Xicana in America gave Mariela Camacho an appreciation for being rooted in a community and the impact that small, independent businesses can have. This inspired Mariela to found Comadre PanaderĂa, an international symbol of social stewardship and environmentalism. Fostering a radical lens, offerings at Comadre are made using quality ingredients like organic grains and seasonal produce. Together, Mariela and her team hope to create a lasting impact on the current food system, bringing attention to the importance of sustainable and equitable practices.
Comadre is revolutionizing the way people think about taking care of their communities through everyday actions, serving as an example of how every individual has the potential to make even slight differences in collective struggles.
Jeremy Mandrell and Anne Ng
Bakery Lorraine, San Antonio, TX
Anne Ng and Jeremy Mandrell took an unconventional route to success with Bakery Lorraine. Marketed by the world-renowned chef Thomas Keller, they started out on a folding table at Quarry Farmers & Ranchers Market in 2011. Filling the market with its delectable treats on Sundays, it quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors. Finally, their hard work paid off enough for them to move up to a spacious 1,200-square-foot house on East Grayson Street. From bread, pastries, and assorted sweets, Bakery Lorraine became more successful than they could have imaginedâ starting out at a small space within the humbling local Quarry Farmer's & Ranch Markets.
As we await the announcement of this year's finalists, let's catch up on the rundown of last year's 2022 Texas nominees..
2022 marks the first time that the James Beard Foundation has recognized Texan chefs in their own division, having previously been grouped into a much broader âSouthwestâ category. The change comes as part of a much wider overhaul of the award committee, shifting to better represent the diversity of the awardees themselves. The James Beard Awards met vocal public outcry in 2020, due to a stark lack of diversity among awardees and the inclusion of several highly controversial chefs. As the pandemic raged on and racial tensions reached a fever pitch cross-country, the Foundation made the move to cancel the 2021 ceremony. In an official press release, James Beard Foundation CEO Clare Reichenbach elaborated on the difficult decision, stating:
âThe uncertainty of this time for our industry is already a hard reality and considering anyone to have won or lost within the current tumultuous hospitality ecosystem does not in fact feel like the right thing to do. In short, an honor which we know is held in high regard, at the moment, feels minor when compared to the dire situation we are in.â
Reichenach went on to pledge the Foundationâs commitment to improvement in the years ahead.
âAs we strive to provide an Awards program with the highest ethical standards, one that is fair, equitable, and reflective of the industry which we serve, we know that the right move is to step back and take stock of the nomineesâ and honoreesâ achievements. We hope to focus our collective energy on helping our community get through this crisis and on addressing the inequities in the industry going forward. We look forward to bringing the Awards back when the industry is once again ready for them.â
With the Awardsâ official return coming up this year, Chef Derry stands among other outstanding nominees from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The full list of 2022 DFW nominees and categories are as follows:
Best New Restaurant:
Roots Southern Table, located in Farmers Branch, Texas.
Outstanding Baker:
Maricsa Trejo, specializing in pastries such as churro cruffins, from La Casita Bakeshop in Richardson, Texas.
Outstanding Hospitality:
José on Lovers, located in Bluffview, Texas, specializing in Mexican cuisine with a modern and innovative twist.
Outstanding Wine Program
Sachet, an eco-friendly Mediterranean venue located in Dallas.
Best Chef, Texas
Tiffany Derry of Roots Southern Table
Matt McCallister of Homewood
Misti Norris of Petra & the Beast
Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman of José
Regino Rojas of Revolver Taco Lounge
Koji Yoshida of Ebesu Robata & Sushi
Alex Au-Yeung, Phat Eatery, Katy
Damien Brockway, Distant Relatives, Austin
Aaron Bludorn, Bludorn, Houston
Sylvia Casares, Sylviaâs Enchilada Kitchen, Houston
Christine Ha and Tony J. Nguyen, Xin ChĂ o, Houston
Quy Hoang, Blood Bros. BBQ, Bellaire
Kaiser Lashkari, Himalaya Restaurant, Houston
Steven McHugh, Cured, San Antonio
Esaul Ramos Jr., 2M Smokehouse, San Antonio
Felipe Riccio, March, Houston
John Russ, Clementine, San Antonio
Ernest Servantes and David Kirkland, Burnt Bean Co., Seguin
Iliana de la Vega, El Naranjo, Austin
Finn Walter, The Nicolett, Lubbock
Who do you think should win this yearâs award? Let us know in the comments below!
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