"It's never too early for churros," said a rep for the James Beard Foundation this morning at Frontera Grill, where the culinary organization announced its 2009 award nominees. The 9 a.m. conference—which treated groggy journalists and local chefs to a breakfast spread of Mexican pastries, blood orange juice, and mocha lattes—marked the first time that the announcements took place outside of New York City.
The reason for the change of scenery? "The James Beard Awards reflect the state of great food in all the states," said chef Rick Bayless, who owns Frontera Grill and helped read off nominees this morning. "So I'm excited to see the announcements take place in Chicago—a great food city." (Bayless's comment prompted a "hear, hear" and a round of applause from the assembled crowd.)
Foundation president Susan Ungaro kicked off the nominee announcements, which comprised more than 50 categories. To add variety to the speaking program, Ungaro shared the mic with guest speakers, among them Deann Bayless (co-owner of Frontera Grill), Woody Campbell (chairman of the foundation's board of trustees), and pastry chef Emily Luchetti (vice chairman of the board of trustees.)
Local eateries to receive nominations included Bin 36 for Best Wine Service and Blackbird for Best Restaurant. Chicagoan Richard Melman, who heads up Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, won a nod in the Outstanding Restaurateur category; and Everest's Jean Joho was nominated for Best Chef. A complete list of nominees is available here.
The James Beard Foundation will return to New York for its official award ceremony and gala reception, which will take pace at Avery Fisher Hall on May 4.
