James Beard Nominees Include Austin Chefs

AUSTIN, TX — The new coronavirus abruptly changed the food scene in Texas, but the finalists in the James Beard Foundation’s annual culinary competition offer a peek.

The culinary prizes that are now in their 30th year are regarded as the Oscar Awards of the food industry.

The list of the 2020 James Beard Nominees was delayed as the presenting organization instead focused supporting an industry upended by the coronavirus crisis. But after consulting with restaurateurs, the organization decided to go ahead with the awards, though there won’t be a gala celebration to announce them.

Winners are typically named in May, but that announcement has been postponed until September.

Related story: James Beard Semifinalists Include Austin Culinary Players

The James Beard Foundation Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund to date has given $4 million to independent, locally owned restaurants around the country, the organization said on its website.

In Austin, two are vying for the Texas Best Chef award: Kevin Fink of Emmer & Rye and Michael Fojtasek of Olamaie.