With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today.
LA and OC Restaurateurs Get Lots Of Love From James Beard Foundation
Malai rigatoni sauced with tomato masala, cream, and coriander
(
Shahab “Joon” Gozarkhah (LAFoodList)
/
LAist
)
Topline:
Los Angeles and Orange County earn high marks in the semi-finalists category for the James Beard Foundation Awards, akin to the Oscars of the food industry.
Who's made the shortlist?: A whole slew of local chefs and restaurants:
- Outstanding Chef category: Niki Nakayama, who specializes in modern Japanese kaiseki cuisine at her restaurant, n/naka.
- Emerging Chef category: Rashida Holmes of the Caribbean pop-up Bridgetown Roti.
- Outstanding Restaurateur category: Greg Dulan, owner of the beloved Inglewood-based soul-food institution Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen.
- Best New Restaurant category: Indian sports bar Pijja Palace, and Korean-American restaurant Yangban Society were both recognized.
Why it matters: The James Beard Foundation Award is the highest American honor for restaurants, wine and bar programs, and chefs. It's typically viewed second only to Michelin Guide, which nominates restaurants from around the world.
Support for LAist comes from
The backstory: It wasn't too long ago that Los Angeles and its surrounding areas were persona non grata for the JBFA, so it's refreshing to see so many hometown-based operations get their recognition.
What's next: Winners will be announced in June.
At LAist, we believe in journalism without censorship and the right of a free press to speak truth to those in power. Our hard-hitting watchdog reporting on local government, climate, and the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis is trustworthy, independent and freely accessible to everyone thanks to the support of readers like you.
But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Chip in now to fund your local journalism
(
LAist
)
Trending on LAist
-
Tens of thousands of workers across Southern California walk out over pay and staffing issues. -
People in and around recent burn scars should be alert to the risk of debris flows. Typical October weather will be back later this week. -
Jet Propulsion Laboratory leadership says the cuts amount to 11% of the workforce. -
The rock legend joins LAist for a lookback on his career — and the next chapter of his music. -
Yes, it's controversial, but let me explain. -
What do stairs have to do with California’s housing crisis? More than you might think, says this Culver City councilmember.
Best of LAist