In January, the James Beard Foundation unveiled the semifinalist nominees for this year’s awards, and two Tucson chefs made the list!
Unfortunately, Wendy Garcia of Tumerico and La Chaiteria, and Flavia Briones of Barista Del Barrio didn’t make it to the finalists round. Hey, they’re winners in our eyes! Here’s to next year’s James Beard Awards.
However, two Arizona chefs outside of Tucson made the cut this year.
Rene Andrade of Bacanora in Phoenix is still in the running for “Best Chef — Southwest” and Crystal Kass of Valentine (also in Phoenix) is a finalist for “Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker.”
On Monday, June 10, the James Beard Foundation will announce the winners during its annual ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
For more information, visit jamesbeard.org. You can check out the full list of finalists at eater.com.
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Article written by:
Matt Sterner
More about MattAt a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
