SHREVEPORT, LA – Foodies know Louisiana is one of the best places to visit to find great food and now the spotlight is shining on some of the best chefs in the Bayou State.

James Beard Award (©Eliesa Johnson, Courtesy of James Beard Foundation)
James Beard Award (©Eliesa Johnson, Courtesy of James Beard Foundation)
loading...

The James Beard Foundation has announced the semifinalists for the prestigious “Best Chef” award. In the southern region which includes Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi and Puerto Rico, 6 of the nominees are from Louisiana.

Florida has 4 nominees.

Puerto Rico has 4 nominees.

Arkansas has 3 nominees.

Mississippi has 2 nominees.

Alabama has 2 nominees.

Who Are the James Beard Nominees from Louisiana Restaurants?

  • Melissa Araujo, Alma Cafe, New Orleans, LA
  • Madonna Broussard, Laura’s II, Lafayette, LA
  • Ana Castro, Acamaya, New Orleans, LA
  • Nicole Cabrera Mills, Pêche Seafood Grill, New Orleans, LA
  • Arvinder Vilkhu and Ashwin Vilkhu, Saffron Nola, New Orleans, LA

Louisiana also has one nominee in the running for the popular “Emerging Chef” Award. This honor goes to a chef “who displays exceptional talent, character, and leadership ability, and who is likely to make a significant impact in years to come.”

Kaitlin Guerin of Lagniappe Bakehouse in New Orleans is in the running for this huge honor.

Finalists will be announced on April 2. The big food winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Our Top Picks for a Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner in Shreveport Bossier

For some of these great restaurants, you might be too late to get a reservation for Valentine's Day, but you might still find some spots open.

10 Commandments of Southern Cooking

What's the Secret to Cooking Fried Chicken?