The James Beard Foundation recently unveiled the list of semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard Awards, which recognize excellence in the culinary industry across the country. Among the nominees from Colorado are Tommy Lee, the talented chef and owner behind Denver’s Uncle ramen restaurants, Hop Alley, and Molino Chido in Aurora. Lee is a contender for outstanding restaurateur.
Other notable Colorado chefs and establishments in the running for national awards include Josh Niernberg of Bin 707 Foodbar in Grand Junction for Outstanding Chef, Kizaki in Denver for Best New Restaurant, Poulette Bakeshop in Parker for Outstanding Bakery, Emily Thompson of The Wolf’s Tailor in Denver for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, Restaurant Olivia in Denver for Outstanding Hospitality, Lady Jane in Denver for Outstanding Bar, and Van Atta in Telluride for Best New Bar.
Additionally, Colorado is well represented in the mountain region category for Best Chef, with standout chefs like Theo Adley of Marigold in Lyons, Johnny Curiel of Alma Fonda Fina in Denver, Dave Grant and Rocky Hunter of Gladys in Edgewater, Miles Odell of Odell’s Bagels in Denver, Bo Porytko of Molotov Kitschen + Cocktails in Denver, Kenneth Wan of MAKfam in Denver, and Penelope Wong of Yuan Wonton in Denver.
For the complete list of semifinalists, visit the James Beard Foundation website.
Last year, Boulder’s Frasca Food and Wine took home the top honor for Outstanding Restaurant at the James Beard Awards. Stay tuned for the announcement of the final nominees on March 31, with the award winners being revealed on June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
