NEW ORLEANS — Several New Orleans’ restaurants, diners and at least one bar have been named as semifinalists in the annual James Beard Awards that honor culinary excellence.
New Orleans annually is feted for its cuisine and those who prepare and serve it and this year is no different. Being named a semifinalist is the first step. Finalists will be named in the Spring with the winners announced in June.
Among the nominees in the metro area, according to NOLA.com, are:
Outstanding Restaurateur
Robert LeBlanc, founder of the hospitality company that is responsible for several fine dining places such as Sylvain, The Chloe, The Will & The Way, Barrel Proof and Anna’s.
Best New Restaurant
Dakar NOLA on Magazine.
Outstanding Hospitality
Arnaud’s Restaurant in the French Quarter was noted for its interconnecting dining rooms and bars.
Outstanding Bar
Jewel of the South
Best Chef from the South nominees:
- Melissa Arujo, Alma
- Amarys Herndon and Jordan Herndon, Palm & Pine
- Sophina Uong, Mister Mao
- Arvinder Vilkhu, Saffron
- Marlon “Chicken” Williams, Chicken’s Kitchen, Gretna
