The culinary world is buzzing with excitement as the 2024 list of James Beard Awards semifinalist has been announced. This prestigious annual event recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements of chefs, restaurants, and culinary professionals across the nation. This year, a collection of Maine restaurants, restaurateurs, chefs, bakeries and hospitality professionals were recognized in this year’s line-up of semifinalists, solidify Maine’s reputation as a food lover’s paradise.
Here’s a closer look at these exciting nods and the fantastic Portland eateries that earned them.
Best Chef: Northeast
- Celia Bruns, Artemisia Cafe
- Ian Driscoll, Bar Futo
- Valerie Goldman, The Honey Paw
- Jake Stevens, Leeward
Outstanding Restaurateur
- Cara Stadler and Cecile Stadler, Bao Bao Dumpling House /Zao Ze Cafe and Market / Tao YuanÂ
Outstanding Hospitality
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
- Atsuko Fujimoto, Norimoto Bakery
Outstanding Bakery
Beyond Portland...
Best New Restaurant
- The Alna Store, Alna
Emerging Chef
- Joseph Robbins, Bissell Brothers Three Rivers in Milo
