4 IL Restaurants And Chefs Are James Beard Awards Nominees

ILLINOIS — The culinary scene in Illinois is well-represented in the 2024 Restaurant and Chef Awards nominees announced Wednesday by the James Beard Foundation.

Illinois nominees are:

• Anna Posey, Elske, Chicago, for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker;
• Lula Cafe, Chicago, for Outstanding Hospitality presented by American Airlines;
• Sujan Sarkar, Indienne, Chicago, for Best Chef - Great Lakes;
• Jenner Tomaska, Esmé, Chicago, for Best Chef - Great Lakes.

The James Beard Awards, first presented in 1991, recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries and are often regarded as the “Oscars of culinary arts.” They recognize a range of experiences, from fine-dining restaurants to casual gems, in 22 categories.

Winners will be announced June 10 in a ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.