This morning the James Beard Foundation announced the semifinalists in the 2013 Restaurant and Chef Awards, and once again Cleveland is well represented.
Michael Symon for Outstanding Chef
Jonathon Sawyer for Best Chef: Great Lakes
Zack Bruell for Best Chef: Great Lakes
Matt Danko for Outstanding Pastry Chef
"This is great news," Symon said after seeing the announcement. "It's always exciting. And it's great awareness for the city. We have four chefs on the list."
Danko, who only switched from savory foods to pasty a year ago, was floored by the mention.
"I just found out an hour ago on the couch," he said. "I'm shocked: it doesn't feel real. So much has happened over the last couple years, it's incredible."
The next round of cuts occurs on Monday, March 18 when the finalists will be announced. Fingers crossed.
