After a two-year break in its ceremonies, the James Beard Foundation announced the semifinalists in its restaurant and chef categories just under a month ago, and St. Louis’ showing was strong. Nominees included Vicia, Elise Mensing (Brasserie), Evy Swoboda (Brasserie), Craig Rivard (Little Fox), Ben Welch (formerly of Botanica), Rob Connoley (Bulrush) and Ben Grupe (Tempus).
Unfortunately, the foundation announced its finalists today, and no St. Louis figures made the cut. The last St. Louisan that was named a finalist was Michael Gallina (Vicia) in 2020, but the awards were canceled before we found out whether he won.
This article appears in March 2022.