Colorado has eight semifinalists in the prestigious James Beard Awards, including seven restaurants being represented.
The James Beard Foundation is a nonprofit organization that strives to recognize chefs and restaurants across the country that are "making America's food culture more delicious, diverse, and sustainable for everyone." And Colorado has eight semifinalists in the foundation's annual awards. The final nominees will be announced on Wednesday, March 14, during a livestream on the foundation's website -- also available via Twitter. An awards gala will take place in honor of the finalists on Monday, May 7, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. [caption id="attachment_33623" align="aligncenter" width="730"]
Courtesy of James Beard Foundation[/caption]
Below are the eight Colorado semifinalists:
Best New Restaurant: Annette (Aurora)
Outstanding Baker: Andy Clark of Moxie Bread Co. (Louisville)
Outstanding Restaurant: Frasca Food and Wine (Boulder)
Outstanding Wine Program: The Little Nell (Aspen)
Outstanding Wine, Beer, or Spirits Professional: Todd Leopold of Leopold Bros. (Denver)
Best Chef -- Southwest: Caroline Glover of Annette (Aurora) | Dana Rodriguez of Work & Class (Denver) | Alex Seidel of Mercantile Dining & Provision (Denver)
View the full list of semifinalists on the James Beard Foundation website.
Congratulations to all of the food and drink establishments and their chefs!
What do you think? Have you been to any of the nominated restaurants? If so, what did you think? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below, and let us know which of the eight semifinalists you believe should make it to the final round.