LA semifinalists for James Beard Awards [Moved from LA Area Board]

[ljeanne]

For what it's worth, here are some LA semifinalists for the James Beard Awards:

OUTSTANDING CHEF
Suzanne Goin, Lucques, Los Angeles

BEST NEW RESTAURANT:
Animal, Los Angeles
The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills, Los Angeles
Palate Food & Wine, Glendale, CA

RISING STAR CHEF OF THE YEAR
Evan Funke, Rustic Canyon Wine Bar and Seasonal Kitchen, Santa Monica, CA
Travis Lett, Gjelina, Venice, CA

OUTSTANDING PASTRY CHEF
Zoe Nathan, Rustic Canyon Wine Bar and Seasonal Kitchen, Santa Monica, CA
Catherine Schimenti, Craft Los Angeles

BEST CHEF: PACIFIC
Gino Angelini, Angelini Osteria, Los Angeles
Michael Cimarusti, Providence, Los Angeles
Josiah Citrin, Mélisse, Santa Monica, CA
Quinn Hatfield, Hatfield’s, Los Angeles
David Myers, Sona, Los Angeles
Craig Strong, The Dining Room at the Langham, Pasadena, CA
Jason Travi, Fraîche, Culver City, CA

[prainer]

I am so pleased to see that Zoe Nathan and Evan Funke of Rustic Canyon WineBar are in the mix. Zoe is truly gifted! Can't wait till Huckleberry opens next week.

[mollyomormon]

Where is it opening? I looked in vain when I drove up Wilshire earlier this week. Is it in the next block east next to See's? I can't wait either!! Also, very excited to see that Animal is up for best new restaurant...

[bruinike]

1014 Wilshire Blvd. Can't wait!

[mollyomormon]

so, will it be right next door to the new Santa Monica Seafood? so excited...

[alli411]

It's 2 doors from Santa Monica Seafood. Went there yesterday and YUM! Great prepared foods and baked goods. I had a plate of 4 salads and a pumpkin tea cake that heavenly. photos and review www.alli411.com

[sbritchky]

I really hope Craig Strong wins Best Chef. He's a good guy in addition to being an excellent chef.

[bsktsngrvy]

Second the vote for Craig Strong. Big talent, small ego.