It’s a big year for professionals in Wisconsin’s food and drink industry, and people across the country are paying attention, as 12 chefs, restaurants, bars, bakers and beverage professionals have been named semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard Awards in eight categories, including seven nods in national categories.
Six Milwaukeeans are included on the James Beard Awards long list. Others from Door County, Madison and Appleton appear, as well.
The James Beard Foundation, which oversees the awards, announced the semifinalists Jan. 21. The list will be narrowed down in the coming weeks, with the final nominees made public at the end of March…