The James Beard Foundation has released the 2024 list of semifinalists for its prestigious awards — and it includes plenty of local talent:
Chef Oscar Amador
Restaurant: Anima by EDO
Category: Outstanding Chef: Nation
What Critics Say: “Chef Oscar Amador has perfected a menu that retains its core Spanish influence while mixing in inspired global elements.” (Rob Kachelriess, Thrillist)
Chef Kimmie Mcintosh and Josh Mcintosh
Restaurant: MILKFISH Bakeshop
Category: Outstanding Bakery: Nation
What Critics Say: “We got the Nutella-filled chocolate chips cookies and cinnamon rolls made with coconut crème and streusel on top. Oh, man. That’s so great.” (Gemini Stevens, Food and Loathing podcast)
Chef DJ Flores
Restaurant: Milpa
Category: Best Chef: Southwest
What Critics Say: “My favorites, though, were the huevos rancheros, two perfectly jiggly eggs doused in a warm, tomato-y broth that I unrepentantly slurped up after finishing the eggs; and the black bean tetelas — tender pockets of corn wrapped around black beans like a Christmas present.” (Our own Sonja Cho Swanson, City Cast Las Vegas)
Chef Brian Howard
Restaurant: Sparrow + Wolf
Category: Best Chef: Southwest
What Critics Say: “Chef Brian Howard specializes in high-wire cooking without a net, and when he pulls it off, the results are thrilling indeed.” (John Curtas, Eating LV)
Chef Steve Kestler
Restaurant: Aroma Latin American Cocina
Category: Best Chef: Southwest
What Critics Say: “Pork belly taco. My mouth just don’t know what to do right now. These are flavors I’ve never tasted before. That is delicious. Aroma in Las Vegas, y'all got something on your hands, that’s a goldmine.” (Keith Lee, TikTok)
- On the other hand: National food media often overlooks Las Vegas. [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]
- Speaking of beards: Did you know there’s a competitive beard scene here? [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]
