Portland Nets 15 James Beard Nominations

Every year, Oregon takes a few steps closer to total Northwest domination, as evidenced by our state's 18 James Beard Award semi-finalists, announced February 17. No surprises here, with Portland Monthly’s Best Restaurants from 2015 and years past topping out the short list for the nation's biggest food awards. But this year’s nominations also bring some well-deserved attention to Portland’s behind-the-scenes talent, from restaurateurs like Nate Tilden (Clyde Common, Olympia Provisions) to super-talented bakers, like Bakeshop’s Kim Boyce. James Beard finalists will be announced March 15, with the final awards ceremony taking place May 2 in Chicago. Stay tuned to Eat Beat for the next round of finalists!
Best Chef: Northwest
Jose Chesa, Ataula
Greg Denton and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton, Ox
Trent Pierce, Roe
Sarah Pliner, Aviary
Ryan Roadhouse, Nodoguro
Justin Woodward, Castagna
Allen Routt, Painted Lady (Newberg, OR)
Joe Kim, 5 Fusion and Sushi Bar (Bend, OR)
Best New Restaurant
Rising Star of the Year
Doug Adams, Imperial
Ryan Fox and Ali Matteis, Nomad
Outstanding Baker
Kim Boyce, Bakeshop
Outstanding Bar Program
Outstanding Chef
Gabriel Rucker, Le Pigeon
Outstanding Pastry Chef
Kristen Murray, Maurice
Outstanding Restaurateur
Nate Tilden, Clyde Common, Olympia Provisions, Spirit of 77, The Richmond
Outstanding Wine Program
Jory Restaurant at the Allison Inn & Spa (Newberg, OR)
Outstanding Wine, Beer, or Spirits Professional
Steve McCarthy, Clear Creek Distillery
For the full list of semi-finalists, visit jamesbeard.org.