It’s that time of the year again. The James Beard Awards recently released their list of semifinalists, and many Kansas City favorites made the list.
Drastic Measures Outstanding Bar
It’s the second year in a row for Shawnee’s Drastic Measures to be nominated for the Outstanding Bar Award, a recognition honoring a bar demonstrating consistent excellence while also having a positive impact on the community surrounding them—a mission that owner Jay Sanders certainly embodies.
Jeff Workman at The Campground Emerging Chef
Jeff Workman is one of this year’s semifinalists in the category of Emerging Chef, and it’s well-deserved. The Campground’s cozy atmosphere and deliciously intimate menu never misses.
Affäre Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
Affäre is being deservedly recognized for demonstrating exceptional care and skill in the pairing of wine (and other beverages) with food, and their seasonal, German fare always hits the spot.
Romain Monnoyeur at Westport Cafe Best Chef – Midwest
Romain Monnoyeur’s menus are always filled with innovation, seasonal twists, and French influences. The chef’s current special is Tartiflette, a potato grain with gruyere cheese, onions, ham, and cream.
Katie Liu-Sung at Chewology Best Chef – Midwest
Also in the Westport neighborhood, Katie Liu-Sung’s Taiwanese gyoza bar is well-known for delicious bao and other traditional Taiwanese dishes, always using local and sustainable food sources to add a Midwestern twist.
Johnny Leach at The Town Company Best Chef – Midwest
Johnny Leach is responsible for the intimate and delectable menu at The Town Company, inside Hotel Kansas City. He was previously nominated for last year’s Outstanding Chef category.
Rozz Petrozz at Saltwell Farm Kitchen Best Chef – Midwest
In Overbrook, Kansas, Rozz Petrozz has created a curated, three- to four-hour dining experience where guests feel less like customers and more like family. The menu is inspired by the seasons and created through local ingredients, neighboring farmers, and foraged foods.
The 2024 James Beard awards ceremonies will be held in Chicago on June 8 through June 10.