St. Louis was well-represented at the James Beard Foundation’s 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards—known as “the Oscars of the food world”—hosted at the historic Lyric Opera of Chicago.
In late March, the finalists were announced, including a number of St. Louis chefs and restaurants: Loryn Nalic (Balkan Treat Box, Telva at the Ridge) and Nick Bognar (Sado, Pavilion) for “Best Chef: Midwest,” Louie for “Outstanding Hospitality,” Robin for “Best New Restaurant,” and Vicia for “Outstanding Restaurant.”
At the awards Monday night, Nalic was named the winner of the “Best Chef: Midwest” category. While accepting the award, she was joined on stage by her husband, Edo, and several members of her restaurant team…