My Loup, Philadelphia (Photo: Nicole Guglielmo)
The semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Awards were announced Wednesday, and Philly landed semifinalists in six categories, while Pittsburgh landed two semifinalists in the Best Chefs category.
Philadelphia scored big at the 2023 James Beard Awards, and the City of Brotherly Love’s culinary scene could fare well again in 2024. Pittsburgh’s vibrant restaurant scene could be recognized nationally as well.
The semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Awards were announced Wednesday, and Philly landed nominees in six categories, while Pittsburgh landed two semifinalists in the Best Chefs category.
Philly’s semifinalists range from Isgro Pastries, a South Philly staple since 1904, to a pair of restaurants that have been open less than a year (My Loup and Bolo).
Here’s a rundown of the Pennsylvania semifinalists:
Outstanding Chef
Dionicio Jiménez, Cantina La Martina, Philadelphia
Emerging Chef
Yun Fuentes, Bolo, Philadelphia
Best New Restaurant
My Loup, Philadelphia
Outstanding Bakery
Isgro Pastries, Philadelphia
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages
a.kitchen+bar, Philadelphia
Best Chefs (Mid-Atlantic)
Carlos Aparicio, El Chingon, Philadelphia
Jesse Ito, Royal Sushi & Izakaya, Philadelphia
Kate Lasky and Tomasz Skowronski, Apteka, Pittsburgh
Randy Rucker, River Twice, Philadelphia
Omar Tate, Honeysuckle Provisions, Philadelphia
Bootsaba Tongdee, Pusadee’s Garden, Pittsburgh
In 2023, three Philadelphia restaurants/chefs were recognized with prestigious top honors at the James Beard Awards. Hannah and Chad Williams took home the Outstanding Restaurant award for Friday Saturday Sunday; Ellen Yin of High Street Hospitality Group (Fork, a.kitchen + bar, High Street Philly) won Outstanding Restaurateur; and Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon of Kalaya was named Outstanding Chef, Mid-Atlantic Region.
Established in 1990 and first awarded in 1991, the James Beard Awards 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.
Nominees will be announced on April 3, and winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 10 in Chicago.
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