They are the Oscars of the food world, and the shortlist has been announced - the James Beard Finalists. As I covered in this blog, the James Beard Awards are currently brewing. Several Lowcountry establishments and people made the nominations list. This James Beard Award season has been upended by the coronavirus, of course, as has the whole world. The gala and awards ceremony have been put on the shelf in a sort of limbo. However, they have moved forward with the James Beard Finalists list.
James Beard Finalists from the Lowcountry
Two Lowcountry reps have made the cut and are officially still in the race as James Beard Finalists. FIG is up for Outstanding Restaurant. High Wire Distillery, with Ann and Scott Black well at the helm, are on the nation’s short list for Outstanding Wine, Beer or Spirits Producer. Also, there are several Lowcountry names among other awards in the food and beverage world.
Leadership Awards - Abundant Seafood’s Mark and Kerry Marhefka, one of five nominated in the country;
Alternative Eating and Drinking Places - Studio Dewberry & Workstead, for The Dewberry’s rooftop Citrus Club cocktail bar
Jonathan Gold Local Voice Award - The Post and Courier’s food editor and chief critic, Hanna Raskin
Health and Wellness - Tony Bartelme, for his coverage of A.G.E.s
Short Essay – Ali Rosen, for her story on the closing of Hominy Grill.
You can find all the James Beard nominees on Open Table. Read all about how “the James Beard Foundation has committed its full staff and programs for the next 12-18 months to Open For Good, a campaign to support the recovery and rebuilding of an independent restaurant industry that is stronger than ever,” here.
A quick IOP update
This just in - the Isle of Palms City Council just decided to allow short term rentals once again, beginning Wednesday, May 13th! They also voted unanimously to rescind the “keep it moving” requirement on the beach. That takes effect immediately. Anyone who is on the beach no longer has to be moving or exercising. Sitting in place is now allowed, as long as folks follow proper social distancing. Read more about it here. If you are ready to book a stay in a beach house Charleston, just give us a call and we’ll get you on the calendar. All best, Lowcountry Lisa your Isle of Palms vacation blogger