Roll out the red carpet, foodies (and watch the crumbs). On Wednesday, Jan. 24, the semifinalists were announced for the 2024 James Beard Awards — one of the culinary world’s most prestigious prizes — and one of TBAY’s own is shining bright.
The prestigious awards are based on excellence and other factors like commitment to the community. But it’s an honor just to be nominated — getting on the James Beard radar is a game changer for any bar, chef, or restaurant, no matter how long they’ve been around.
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 3, when the finalists will be announced. A Saturday, June 10 ceremony in Chicago will reveal the winners. Here’s the local flavor:
🏆 TBAY’s 2024 semifinalist
Webb’s City Cellar | Nominated for Outstanding Bar | The Green Bench Brewing Co. tasting room — located just across the courtyard from the main Green Bench building — serves brews like “Mr. Mingo,” a Farmhouse Ale with Roselle Hibiscus, and the “Bramble Barrel” — a gin barrel-aged sour ale fermented with blackberry and lemon — as well as ciders + vino. Beyond serving inventive creations, the tasting room boasts cozy interior and balcony seating, with access to the fun, and hopping courtyard.
Before you sit down for some vino, check out the wine cellar at Bern’s.
Photo via @wine_down_naturally
🍽️ Past winner to visit
Bern’s Steak House , 1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa | Opened in 1956, this South Tampa staple is a favorite for proposals, celebrations, and special life moments — and its drinks. Bern’s picked up wins under the Outstanding Wine Program category in 2016 and Outstanding Wine Service in 1992, and was named a semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant in 2008, 2009, and 2014. And that’s not even mentioning its revered Harry Waugh Dessert Room.
🔮 Who’s going next?
Now we want to hear about your tastes. Are there restaurants or local chefs you think deserve some more love? Send us an emai
l, and let us know about the unrecognized award-worthy meals TBAY has to offer.