HOUSTON — The culinary world was watching Houston Wednesday morning as the James Beard Foundation announced nominees for its 2019 awards.
The event was held at Hugo’s, whose owner Hugo Ortega was a semi-finalist for “best restaurateur.”
Officials announced the nominees in more than 50 categories.
"We're thrilled to showcase the city of Houston and bring our 2019 James Beard Awards nominees announcement to this diverse and vibrant culinary and dining scene," said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation. "The city of Houston's dedication to cultivating and embracing its local restaurants and culinary talent make it the perfect community for such an occasion."
There were 10 semi-finalists from the Houston area in all including the original Ninfa's on Navigation, Ronnie Killen, the founder of Killen's Barbecue, and Chris Shepherd who is a past Beard award-winning chef.
Unfortunately, none made it to the final list of nominees.
But, Shepherd, who was a 2019 semi-finalist for “outstanding chef,” says it’s still a big deal.
"I think it's showing more and more the diversity and who were are as a city -- and every year it just keeps growing and growing -- so, it’s good for our city, absolutely," Shepherd said.
Wednesday's announcement was streamed live around the world.
The final James Beard Awards will be presented at a ceremony in Chicago in May.
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