By
Kelly Vaughn

When the James Beard Foundation announced its 2023 award semifinalists, several Arizona chefs and restaurants made the cut. Among them were: 

Outstanding Chef, Silvana Salcida Esparza, Barrio Cafe, Phoenix

Outstanding Restaurant, Proper Meats & Provisions, Flagstaff

Emerging Chef, Christian Lowe, Shift Kitchen & Bar, Flagstaff

Outstanding Bakery, JL Patisserie, Phoenix and Scottsdale

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, Crystal Kass, Valentine

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program, Glai Baan, Phoenix

Best Chef: Southwest

  • Rene Andrade and Roberto Centeno, Bacanora, Phoenix
  • Jaren Bates and Brett Vibber, The Table at Junipine, Sedona
  • Nephi Craig, Café Gozhóó, Whiteriver
  • Wendy Garcia, Tumerico, Tucson
  • Fernando Hernández, Testal, Phoenix
  • Yotaka and Alex Martin, Lom Wong, Phoenix

Finalists will be announced on March 29, and a gala honoring winners will take place in Chicago on June 5. Congratulations to all of the Arizona-based nominees!

The James Beard Foundation (JBF) is a 501(c)3 organization that celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive. Established over 30 years ago, the Foundation has highlighted the centrality of food culture in our daily lives and is committed to supporting a resilient and flourishing industry that honors its diverse communities.