BLOG

Meet KC’s Latest James Beard Award Finalist

April 11, 2019


 

Kansas City’s reputation as a city filled with outstanding dining experiences continues to grow, most recently emphasized by chef Michael Corvino’s selection as a finalist for the James Beard Award—one of America’s most prestigious food awards.

Corvino first received recognition as a semifinalist in 2018 before earning a place as one of five finalists in the Best Chef: Midwest category in 2019. Winners will be announced May 6.

 

Corvino’s Crossroads restaurant, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, prepares New American tastes that have become a mainstay in Kansas City’s dining landscape. Striking both visually and conceptually, the restaurant is celebrated for its nightly dinner menus, late-night dining and intimate tasting experiences in a private setting.

In addition to Corvino’s place as a finalist for Best Chef: Midwest, a record number of area restaurants garnered honors as James Beard Award semifinalists in a variety of categories:


Outstanding Baker: Taylor Petrehn, 1900 Barker

 

This year marks the third consecutive recognition for 1900 Barker and Petrehn, who earned his first nod as a semifinalist just two years after opening the cozy Lawrence bakery.

Outstanding Bar Program: The Monarch Bar

 

This Country Club Plaza standout features a refined cocktail menu that perfectly complements the bar’s sharp design, making The Monarch Bar a must-visit.

Outstanding Chef: Colby Garrelts, Bluestem

 

Colby Garrelts carries a long list of accolades for his work at Bluestem, a Westport spot known for everything from small plates and cocktails to refined late-night dining.

Outstanding Pastry Chef: Megan Garrelts, Rye

 

Lemon meringue, banana cream or a seasonal selection, Megan Garrelts’ pie shines at Rye’s Plaza and Leawood locations.

Rising Star Chef of the Year: Calvin Davis, Freshwater

 

Davis’ thoughtful and intimate Midtown kitchen crafts locally-sourced small plates and extensive tasting menus featuring 10 or more courses.

Best Chef, Midwest: Nicholas Goellner, The Antler Room

 

Sample Goellner’s Mediterranean small plates at the charming, buzzy Antler Room, tucked away in KC’s Union Hill neighborhood.

Best Chef, Midwest: Linda Duerr, The Restaurant at 1900

 

The Restaurant at 1900 opened to much fanfare in 2018, with chef Linda Duerr preparing regionally-inspired dishes in an art-adorned modernist space.