James Beard Finalists
Top San Antonio chef once again earns chance to be James Beard winner
One San Antonio chef has the chance to be named James Beard Best Chef: Southwest. On Wednesday, March 15, the Beard Foundation announced Steve McHugh (Cured) as a finalist in the category.
McHugh was also a finalist in 2016. He'll be competing against Bryce Gilmore (Barley Swine in Austin), Hugo Ortega (Hugo's in Houston), Jianyun Ye (Mala Sichuan Bistro in Houston), Steve Redzikowski (Acorn in Denver), and Martin Rios (Restaurant Martin in Santa Fe).
Considered to be the Oscars of the culinary industry, the awards recognize chefs, front of house professionals, restaurateurs, and media in a broad array of categories. Voters consist of a volunteer panel of more than 600 judges from across the country, including local critics, culinary educators, and past winners.
The awards will be presented on May 1 in Chicago. The media awards will be presented in New York on April 25.