Charleston chefs and restaurants compete for James Beard awards
Charleston is a top culinary destination and dining here is a great experience. Charleston chefs and restaurants are competing for the annual James Beard Foundation Awards. In the National Awards, my favorite, Peninsula Grill is competing for Outstanding Restaurant while Charleston Grill is contending for Outstanding Service. Chefs on the ballot include Lauren Mitterer of Red Drum Gastropub for outstanding pastry chef and Sean Brock of McCrady's for rising star chef of the year (under 30, talented and likely to make a significant impact in the future).
On the regional front, Robert Carter of Peninsula Grill, Mike Lata of Fig, Robert Stehling of Hominy Grill and Jason Houser of Muse are competing for best chef Southeast. Winners will be announced in New York on June 8.
Speaking of fine dining and a little wine to go with it, The BB&T Charleston Food + Wine Festival will be bigger and better this year, the 4 day event begins Thursday February 28.