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Ramen del Barrio, Bufalina, and six other Austin restaurants nominated for a James Beard Award

The semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Awards were announced on Jan. 24. Here are eight Austin spots that made the list.

A plate of food with chicken on a banana leaf, a green herby sauce and vegetables.

Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph’s modern Caribbean cuisine earned him a nomination for “Best Chef” in the 2024 James Beard Awards.

Roll out the red carpet, food lovers (and watch the crumbs).

The semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Awards — one of the culinary world’s most prestigious prizes — were announced yesterday, and Austin stars are shining bright.

You’ll find eight local chefs up for an award based on excellence and other factors like commitment to the community.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 3, when the finalists will be announced, and also for Monday, June 10, when a ceremony in Chicago will reveal the winners.

Until then, here’s a breakdown of this year’s semifinalists.

A close-up image of meat sliced on a cutting board.

Mum Foods’ craft meats earned chef Geoff Ellis a spot as one of this year’s James Beard semifinalists.

Photo from @mumfoodsatx

Best Chef

  • Tavel Bristol-Joseph of Canje | Bristol-Joseph’s Caribbean flavors have been turning heads since Canje opened in 2021. In fact, the chef was also nominated in this category last year.
  • Geoff Ellis of Mum Foods Smokehouse & Delicatessen | Ellis’ deli on Manor Road serves humanely raised, Akaushi beef sourced from Texas farmers, and makes every menu item from scratch.
  • Joseph Gomez of Con Todo | Try Gomez’s incredible tacos and tostadas at Celis Brewery, and don’t miss out on the brunch options.
  • Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel of Birdie’s | This lauded wine bar and restaurant already has a slew of awards under its belt and is known for long lines out the door come dinnertime.
  • Fermín Núñez of Suerte | Núñez’s restaurant Suerte was also James Beard-nominated last year for its expansive list of mezcal, raicilla, sotol, and other liquors.

Best New Restaurant

  • Ramen del Barrio | The new Japanese-Mexican fusion restaurant inside Hana World Market serves slow-cooked carnitas inside thick, decadent broth.
A box with pastries and sweets inside.

Mariela Camacho’s treats are as sweet as can be.

Photo provided by Comadre Panadería

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker

  • Mariela Camacho of Comadre Panadería | This is the second year in a row Camacho has been nominated for her delicious pan, cakes, and pastries.

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

  • Bufalina | The pizza spot’s 24-page wine list is expertly curated to pair with any of the restaurant’s well-loved dishes.
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