Glover Park Restaurant is James Beard Hopeful

Glover Park's Mayfair & Pine is hoping loyal customers will vote to get the attention of the James Beard Award judges as they consider nominees for the Best New Restaurant 2012.

The gastropub opened in Glover Park at 2218 Wisconsin Ave. NW in June.

"I don’t consider myself to be an artist. I consider myself to be a craftsman," said Chef Emily Sprissler.

She said even being a finalist for the prestigious James Beard Award "would validate years of hard work."

According to the organization's website, the James Beard Awards:

"Covering all aspects of the industry—from chefs and restaurateurs to cookbook authors and food journalists to restaurant designers and architects and more—the Beard Awards are the highest honor for food and beverage professionals working in North America."

When such a revered foundation recognizes a chef or restaurant, "somebody is validating what your process is, what your work is," Sprissler said. Such awards celebrate "your hustle, your abilities, whatever you bring to the table."

"I think we all want that," she added, no matter what your profession.

If you would like to support a local restaurant with your vote, you can go online and register to do so at http://jamesbeard.starchefs.com/awards/vote/v_register.php.