Houston Area Chefs Stack Up 2023 James Beard Nominations

WORDS BY JAMIE THREADGILL

The James Beard Foundation has announced their 2023 semifinalists and Houston has 11 chefs and restaurants that are in contention for this esteemed award. Considering the diversity and creativity in Houston's cuisi ne, it is gratifying that so many great people and restaurants in the Houston area have been recognized this year.

Established in 1990, the James Beard Awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system and are some of the nation’s most prestigious honors.

Chefs Christine Williams and Tony J. Nguyen were nominated for Outstanding Chef for their restaurant Xin Chào and Victoria Elizondo of Cochinita & Co has been nominated for Best Emerging Chef. Four incredible Houston chefs have been nominated for Best Chef: Texas — Benchawan Jabthong Painter from the restaurant Street to Kitchen, Ai Le from Nam Giao and Kiran Verma from Kiran’s. Since Texas is known for its barbecue, it is no surprise that Greg Gatlin from Gatlin’s BBQ has also been announced for Best Chef: Texas. Chris Williams has been nominated for Outstanding Restaurateur for his work at Lucille's Hospitality Group. Besides the amazing chefs and restaurateurs, there are two restaurants that have been nominated for an award — Tatemó for Best New Restaurant and Theodore Rex for the Outstanding Hospitality award. Finally, Nancy’s Hustle was nominated for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages.

T he finalists will be announced on March 29 and the winners will be awarded early June. Edible Houston congratulates the nominees and will be rooting for them throughout the whole process.

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