7 DC, VA Restaurants And Chefs Among James Beard Award Finalists

WASHINGTON, DC — The James Beard Foundation has announced the 2019 finalists for the prestigious awards sometimes referred to as the Oscars of the culinary world. The finalists were announced on Wednesday and seven restaurants and chefs in the District and Virginia are on the list.

In DC:

• Pichet Ong - Brothers and Sisters

• Jaleo

• Kwame Onwuachi - Kith and Kin

• Amy Brandwein - Centrolina
• Tom Cunanan - Bad Saint

• Annie's Paramount Steakhouse
  • Owner: Paul Katinas

In Virginia:

• Patrick O'Connell
  • Multiple James Beard Award-Winning Chef; Chef & Owner, The Inn at Little Washington in Washington, VA

Finalists were announced by chef Hugo Ortega in Houston during a ceremony at his namesake Mexican restaurant, Hugo's. The nominees are for James Beard awards in restaurant and chef, media, and restaurant design categories.

The awards will be presented on May 6 at the Lyric Opera in Chicago.

The foundation said that 2019's theme is "Good Food For Good," which is synonymous with its mission.

"It is the simple summation of what the organization stands for, from unique and delicious dining experiences at the James Beard House and around the country, to scholarships, mentorships, and a variety of industry programs that educate and empower leaders in the food community," the foundation said in a press release.

The awards, which "recognize culinary professionals for excellence and achievement in their fields" were established in 1990. According to the foundation, each award category has an individual committee made up of industry professionals. Each committee oversees "the policies, procedures, and selection of judges for their respective awards programs," the foundation says.

Winners receive a certificate and medallion engraved with the foundation's insignia.

You can see the full list of nominees here.

Patch's Beth Dalbey contributed to this report.