A Northern Kentucky chef been named a semifinalist in the 2026 James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards.
The Restaurant and Chef Awards are one of five recognition programs from the James Beard Foundation and one of the most prestigious culinary honors, celebrating excellence in everything from fine dining to casual eateries and emerging talents to established luminaries. Semifinalists in this program are recognized across 25 categories, including three recognizing bars and bar service professionals.
Chef David Willocks from Baker’s Table at 1004 Monmouth St. in Newport is up for nomination for Best Chef in the Southeast region, which includes Kentucky. Chefs in this category“set high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities,” per a press release from the organization, and are “making efforts to help create a sustainable work culture in their respective regions while contributing positively to their broader community.”…