Chicago Picks Up Pair of James Beard Awards

The Purple Pig’s Jimmy Bannos Jr. tied for Rising Star Chef in the U.S.

Last night’s James Beard Awards in New York City honored the accomplishments of some of the greatest female chefs in the country. Outstanding Chef in the U.S. (Nancy Silverton), NYC (April Bloomfield) and Restaurateur (Barbara Lynch) were among the highlights. But Chicago had several nominations as well, and just two chefs were able to grace the podium. Yes, these are the Oscars of the culinary world, but not sure they are an accurate representation, this year at least, of how significant and outstanding the local food scene is (I know, totally local bias). Here are this year’s Chicago winners:

Jimmy Bannos Jr., Rising Star Chef (The Purple Pig) tied with Blaine Wetzel from The Willows Inn on Lummi Island, WA

Dave Beran, Best Chef: Great Lakes (Next Restaurant)

Grace, Outstanding Restaurant Design, 75 Seats and Under (Lawton Stanley Architects)

also, from Friday night’s Book, Broadcast and Journalism Awards, The French Pastry School’s Jacquy Pfeiffer won in the Baking category, for his book, “The Art of French Pastry.” Congrats to all of this year’s winners, and seriously, I’m hoping for greater things next year.