Twelve Maine chefs and restaurants have been named semifinalists for the 2017 James Beard Awards. They are included below, along with a short video from Laura outlining the next steps:
The semifinalists:
- Best New Restaurant: Drifters Wife, Portland
- Outstanding Baker: Alison Pray, Standard Baking Co., Portland
- Outstanding Bar Program: The Portland Hunt + Alpine Club, Portland
- Outstanding Pastry Chef: Ilma Lopez, Piccolo, Portland
- Outstanding Restaurant: Chase’s Daily, Belfast, and Fore Street, Portland
- Outstanding Wine, Spirits or Beer Professional: Rob Tod, Allagash Brewing Co., Portland
- Rising Star Chef of the Year: Cara Stadler, Tao Yuan, Brunswick
- Best Chef Northeast: Brian Hill, Francine Bistro, Camden; Ravin Nakjaroen, Long Grain, Camden; Keiko Suzuki Steinberger, Suzuki’s Sushi Bar, Rockland; Andrew Taylor and Mike Wiley, Eventide Oyster Co., Portland
