Now, this is a big deal. Not a lot of people get nominated for a James Beard Award. In fact, this is the only person in our area to be nominated.

This week in a press release, the James Beard Foundation revealed the semifinalist nominees for the 2023 James Beard Awards. These awards are nominated every year for people all across the country trying to make the cut.

They recognize talent and achievements in multiple topics: "culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive."

The James Beard Foundation’s Restaurant and Chef Awards were started back in 1991 to be the nation's most prestigious honor in both culinary and food media.

This year Jon Walter, the owner of Chez Sami in Wolfforth, TX has made the cut. They now have it down to 20 different chefs in Texas to compete for the best chef in the state. He is the only one in the area nominated for an award.

If you haven't checked out Chez Sami you really should. They have amazing French cuisine. You can try things like Short Rib Bourguignon, Pork Milanese, Coquilles Saint-Jacques, and more.

His restaurant is located at 709, Main St, Wolfforth, TX. You can find out more about them on their website.

Finalists will be announced on Wednesday, March 29th, and the winner's gala will be Monday, June 5th in Chicago. Check out the full list of semifinalists below.

Congrats, Jon we are all cheering for you!

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