7 Miami-Area Restaurants, Chefs Named 2024 James Beard Semifinalists

FLORIDA — Seven Miami-area restaurants and chefs were named 2024 James Beard semifinalists, the organization said Wednesday.

The James Beard Foundation awards, sometimes known as the “Oscars of food,” are among the nation’s most prestigious culinary honors. It recognizes eateries and chefs who create exceptional food, food media content, and better food systems, the organization said. They also demonstrate a commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.

Categories include outstanding restaurateur, outstanding chef, outstanding restaurant, emerging chef, best new restaurant, outstanding bakery, outstanding pastry chef or baker, outstanding hospitality, outstanding wine and other beverages program, outstanding bar and best chef.

In South Florida, the following restaurants and chefs were named semifinalists this year:

• Zak the Baker, Miami, Outstanding Bakery
• Jesus Brazon and Manuel Brazon, Caracas Bakery, Doral and Miami, Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
• Macchialina, Miami Beach, Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
• Valerie Chang, Maty’s, Miami, Best Chef: South
• Clay Conley, Buccan, Palm Beach, Best Chef: South
• Tristen Epps, Ocean Social, Miami, Best Chef: South

"We are thrilled for the return of the James Beard Awards—recognizing the outstandingly talented leaders making their mark on American food,” Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation, said in a news release.

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The restaurant and chef awards celebrate excellence from a wide variety of eateries and experiences, from fine-dining establishments to casual gems, and emerging talents to established luminaries.

The awards were established in 1990 and first awarded in 1991.

This year marks the third since the organization made sweeping changes following a 2021 audit to address longstanding bias.

Outstanding restaurateur recognizes people who use their establishment as a vehicle for building community, demonstrates creativity in entrepreneurship, integrity in their restaurant operations and strives to create a sustainable work culture, while making positive contributions to the community.

The outstanding chef category recognizes chefs who set “high culinary standards” and serve as a positive example for other food professionals, while making an impact on the broader community.

The outstanding restaurant category honors eateries that have a proven track record of excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations, and make a difference in the community.