Kansas City is buzzing with excitement this year as several restaurants and bars receive nominations for the prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards. Among the nominees is The Town Company, where executive pastry chef Helen Jo Leach and her husband, executive chef Johnny Leach, showcase their talent with locally-sourced dishes cooked over a white oak fire. This marks the second consecutive year The Town Company has secured nominations in multiple categories.
The nominations were shared on Instagram, creating a wave of enthusiasm. Finalists will be revealed in April, with winners announced in Chicago in June. These awards are seen as the “Oscars of the food world” and can significantly elevate a restaurant’s profile. Winning doesn’t just come with a trophy; it brings national attention and can boost business.
Established in 1986 to honor cookbook author James Beard, the foundation seeks to cultivate a diverse food culture through education and community support. Its influence is profound, shaping both local dining scenes and broader culinary trends.
Interestingly, Kansas City had seven nominations last year, but none made the finalist list. This year, however, there’s hope with talented chefs and unique establishments pushing boundaries. Here are the notable local nominees:
Best New Restaurant
Anjin, Kansas City, Missouri
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
Helen Jo Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, Missouri
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
Diana Condori, Fern Bar, Kansas City, Missouri
Best Chef: Midwest
Johnny Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, Missouri
Swetha Newcomb, Of Course, Overland Park, Kansas
Outstanding Bar
Drastic Measures, Shawnee, Kansas
Other Notable Nominations
Best Chef: Midwest
Jason Rickard and Jordan Rickard, FioRito, Wichita, Kansas
Outstanding Restaurant
Vicia, St. Louis
According to a recent survey by the James Beard Foundation, 82% of diners consider awards when choosing restaurants. This growing emphasis on culinary excellence reflects not only a desire for quality food but also a demand for unique dining experiences. As local establishments vie for honors, it’s clear that food culture in Kansas City and beyond is flourishing.
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