Silvana Salcido Esparza (pictured) from Barrio Café in Phoenix has been named one of 20 nationwide semifinalists for Outstanding Chef in the 2023 James Beard Foundation Awards, the culinary world’s equivalent of the Oscars.
In addition, five Valley chefs are semifinalists for the regional Best Chef Southwest award, which covers Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma:
- Rene Andrade and Roberto Centeno for Mexican restaurant Bacanora in Phoenix.
- Fernando Hernández from Mexican restaurant Testal in Phoenix.
- Yotaka and Alex Martin from Thai restaurant Lom Wong in Phoenix.
Other Valley semifinalists:
- Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Crystal Kass from Southwest bakery and restaurant Valentine in Phoenix.
- Outstanding Bakery: JL Patisserie in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
- Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Glai Baan in Phoenix.
Finalists will be announced March 29 and the winners June 5.
