Today, the James Beard Foundation announced its list of semifinalists for its annual culinary awards, and West Chester’s Andiario made the cut. The Italian eatery, which opened last March, is one of 30 up for the title of Best New Restaurant.
Since opening last year, Andiario has been on the receiving end of accolades from critics around the country, making it one of the most sought-after reservations in the suburbs and earning it a spot on our own Best New Restaurants list in February.
Chef Anthony Andiario, who co-owns the restaurant with partner Maria van Schaijik, previously worked alongside James Beard Award-winner Chris Bianco in Phoenix, Ariz.
Related: Andiario is West Chester’s New Culinary Gem
Several Philadelphia restaurants and chefs were also named as semifinalists this year. Tova du Plessis of Passyunk’s Jewish-style bakery, Essen Bakery, made the short list for Outstanding Baker. Monk’s Café in Rittenhouse is up for Outstanding Bar Program. Old City’s Zahav, a modern Israeli restaurant that opened in 2008, is up for Outstanding Restaurant. James Matty of Suraya, another new hot spot located in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood, is nominated for Outstanding Pastry Chef.
Other nods go to High Street Hospitality Group’s Ellen Yin, who was nominated for Outstanding Restaurateur. Jesse Ito, of Queen Village’s Royal Izakaya, is up for Rising Star Chef of the Year. Marc Vetri, the much-lauded chef and founder of Vetri Family of Restaurants, is a semifinalist for James Beard’s Outstanding Chef award for his work at Vetri Cucina in Midtown Village.
Three Philadelphia chefs are also vying for the title of Best Chef, including Laurel’s Nicholas Elmi, South Philly Barbacoa’s Christina Martinez and Vedge’s Rich Landau.
Finalists will be announced at a press conference in Houston, Tex. on March 27.
