Chicago picks up 12 James Beard Award finalist nominations

This morning, the James Beard Foundation came to Chicago to announce the finalists for the 2014 awards. Held at the Publican, the announcement narrowed down the list of semifinalists for the award ceremony that will be held May 5 at Lincoln Center in New York. 

After earning 25 semifinalist nominations, Chicago did fairly well in the second round—there are 12 finalists, including four nominations for One Off Hospitality and two for Grace.

Outstanding Bar Program
The Violet Hour

Outstanding Pastry Chef
Dana Cree, Blackbird

Outstanding Restaurant
Spiaggia

Outstanding Restaurateur
Donnie Madia, One Off Hospitality Group

Outstanding Service
Topolobampo

Rising Star Chef of the Year
Jimmy Bannos Jr., The Purple Pig
David Posey, Blackbird

Best Chef: Great Lakes
Dave Beran, Next
Curtis Duffy, Grace
Paul Virant, Vie Restaurant
Andrew Zimmerman, Sepia

Restaurant Design, 75 Seats and Under
Grace