ST. LOUIS — St. Louis is a growing foodie destination, and now some local restaurants may be a little busier after being selected as semifinalists for the James Beard Award.
Three local chefs made the list of “Best Chef: Midwest.” There are 20 chefs from across eight states. The local ones include:
- Chef Nick Bognar at iNDO
- Chef Rob Connoley at Bulrush
- Loryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box
iNDO posted on Instagram that this is a huge victor for its team that works extremely hard to bring warm service and incredible food to guests everyday. The post also congratulates the other semi-finalists in “our amazing food and drink city.”
Bulrush also posted on Instagram thanking the James Beard Foundation selection committee for recognizing its work. The post says its team has been working hard on its commitment to reparative restauranting. The post goes on to say “I have a great staff and so we all share this honor, along with our farmers, academic interns, and community partners.”
The owners of Vicia, Winslow’s Table and Bistro La Floraison were named a semifinalist for “Outstanding Restauranter.” Michael and Tara Gallina and Aaron Martinez with Take Root Hospitality are among 20 semifinalists from across the country.
La Patisserie Choquette is among 16 national semifinalists for “Outstanding Bakery.” The Tower Grove bakery posted on social media that it is “beyond elated” to be nominated. The post also says “10 years of making what we love alongside people we love has never felt so good."
It’s been a decade in operation for The Gin Room, now one of 15 national semifinalists for “Outstanding Bar.” The owner of the bar in the South Grand neighborhood posted on social media that it started as a little bar in the family’s Persian restaurant. The post also thanked the bar’s patrons and went on to say it is “Deeply humbled by the recognition.”
The nominees will be announced March 29 and the awards ceremony will be held June 5. For a complete list of semifinalists, click here.
