A Tampa chef was among the James Beard Awards semifinalists announced Wednesday.
Why it matters: The nod to Michelin-starred Rocca owner and executive chef Bryce Bonsack in the Best Chef: South category ends a five-year drought of Beard Awards recognition of Tampa Bay’s food scene.
State of play: The Beards are like the Oscars for the American hospitality industry, so even the semis are significant.
- Best Chef recognizes those “who set high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities and who are making efforts to help create a sustainable work culture in their respective regions.”
What they’re saying: “It’s a dream come true,” Bonsack told Axios on Wednesday morning, adding that it’s a team effort and a “testament to everyone that works with me.”…