Top chefs: 12 Twin Citians among James Beard semifinalists
The Twin Cities restaurant scene is hot.
The James Beard Foundation on Wednesday announced semifinalists for its restaurant and chef awards. Twelve Minnesotans made the shortlist in three categories: Outstanding Baker, Outstanding Pastry Chef and Best Chef: Midwest.
The James Beard Awards are among the most prestigious in the food world. They recognize the best in food — from restaurants to cookbooks to writing and programming — across North America.
Finalists will be announced March 15; the awards gala will take place May 2.
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Here are Minnesota's semifinalists, by category:
Outstanding Baker
• Michelle Gayer, Salty Tart, Minneapolis
• John Kraus, Patisserie 46, Minneapolis
Outstanding Pastry Chef
• Diane Yang, Spoon and Stable, Minneapolis
Best Chef: Midwest
• Paul Berglund, The Bachelor Farmer, Minneapolis
• Thomas Boemer, Corner Table, Minneapolis
• Mike Brown, Bob Gerken and James Winberg, Travail Kitchen & Amusements, Robbinsdale
• Jim Christiansen, Heyday, Minneapolis
• Jorge Guzman, Surly Brewing Co., Minneapolis
• Russell Klein, Meritage, St. Paul
• Lenny Russo, Heartland Restaurant & Farm Direct Market, St. Paul