James L. Beard Award Nominees Announced

Yesterday the nominees for the biggest prize awarded to select members of the culinary world were announced and, not surprisingly, Chicago is well represented.

In the running for a coveted James L. Beard "outstanding service award" are three Chicago restaurants, which is an amazing feat considering there are only five nominees:

Congratulations go out to the teams of Spiaggia, Topolobampo and Tru.

Other local nominees include:

*Sandro Gamba of NoMi; Michael Kornick of MK, and Shawn McClain of Spring, all finalists for best chef in the Midwest.

*Richard Melman, of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, for the outstanding restaurateur award.

*Jean Joho, chef and owner of Everest, for the outstanding restaurant award.