The heat is on in San Antonio's culinary scene as the James Beard Foundation rolls out its list of semifinalists for the 2024 awards, marking another year the city's chefs and eateries score recognition at what's been dubbed the upmarket Oscars of the food world. In the mix for the acclaimed titles are local favorites Mixtli, contending in the "Outstanding Restaurant" category, and not just one but a spicy bunch of top chefs from the area vying for the "Best Chef: Texas" crown.
According to an Express News report, Mixtli, known for its innovative Mexican cuisine, has found itself on the prestigious list for the second time in as many years. In the pitmaster arena, Burnt Bean Co.'s David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes are going fork-to-fork with other national contenders in the "Outstanding Chef" category, a true first for the duo, despite previously being considered for the Texas-specific title.
Meanwhile, San Antonio is offering a triple threat in the Texas chef's category with Christopher Cullum of Cullum’s Attaboy, Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin of Best Quality Daughter – who also made waves last year in the "Emerging Chef" category – and the trio of Andrew Ho, Andrew Samia, and Sean Wen of Curry Boys BBQ, as per MySanAntonio.com.
The stakes are high, as final nominees will be revealed on April 3, according to MySanAntonio.com, and the winners will be taking their bows – or their bows, at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony set for June 10 in Chicago's Lyric Opera House. These recognitions aren't just a feather in the cap for the individuals, they're a testament to San Antonio's status as a burgeoning gastronomic hub, where Texan flavors meet innovation on a plate.
Success for these chefs and restaurants not only signifies personal achievement, but also cements San Antonio's place as a significant player in America's broader culinary landscape. With such diversity in the offerings, from impeccable barbecued meats to Asian-Texan fusion and beyond, the city's sights are set undoubtedly high for when the final curtain rises on the 2024 James Beard Awards.
