This morning, the James Beard Foundation announced the nominees for the 2018 James Beard Foundation Awards. If you're thinking—Wait, didn't they already do that?—you're close. A few months ago, JBF released their semifinalist list, which included six Austin all-stars. Now, it's been narrowed down to two.
Michael Fojtasek of Olamaie and Bryce Gilmore of Barley Swine/Odd Duck were nominated in the Best Chef Southwest category. A Restaurant Design Award (75 seats and under) nomination was also given to FÖDA Studio, Studio MAI, and Michael Hsu Office of Architecture for their work on Otoko. Unfortunately, Launderette's Laura Sawicki (Outstanding Pastry Chef), Emmer & Rye's Kevin Fink (Best Chef Southwest), Jester King Brewery's Jeffrey Stuffings (Outstanding Wine, Spirits, or Beer Professionals) and Kemuri Tatsu-ya (Best New Restaurant) didn't make it through to the final round.
The winners will be announced in New York City on April 27; check out the full list of nominees here. Until then, give Fojtasek and Gilmore a shout-out for their huge accomplishment!