A James Beard Award is one of the highest honors in the food world, and this year, two Anchorage standouts are being recognized among the finalists.
Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop has been named a finalist for “Outstanding Bakery,” highlighting its impact in Alaska’s culinary scene.
In the “Best Chef: Northwest & Pacific” category, Nathan Bentley, chef and owner of Altura Bistro, is also a finalist. Bentley says while he’s been nominated three times before — in 2022, 2023, and 2024 — this marks his first time reaching finalist status…