Meet the 2024 Chicago James Beard Award Finalists

It’s that time of the year when food professionals from around the country are arriving in Chicago for the James Beard Awards. Here are the locals up for the prestigious culinary honors.

Meet the Finalists

Outstanding Hospitality: Lula Cafe

For 25 years, crowds have been drawn to the Logan Square spot for the food and ambiance. Owner Jason Hammel released a cookbook last year. Pro-tip: Make your dinner reservation far in advance. I booked my birthday dinner a month out.

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Anna Posey of Elske

The Danish-inspired restaurant in West Loop has taken home multiple honors over the years — including a Michelin star. Posey and her husband Dave were up for best Great Lakes chef in 2019.

Best Great Lakes Chef: Sujan Sarkar of Indienne and Jenner Tomaska of Esmé

The chefs behind the contemporary Indian restaurant in River North and the fine dining concept in Lincoln Park are up for the regional award. 

Does the list of finalists seem short to you? It’s one fewer than last year.

What Else You Should Know

The restaurant and chef awards are at the Lyric Opera Monday at 6 p.m. Tickets are sold out, but you can join the waitlist or check out other programming all weekend leading up to the big ceremony like:

• 🍦 Baobing Bar will offer soft serve and craft cocktails in West Loop Saturday.
• 🌱 Daisies will host a sustainability panel in Logan Square Sunday.
• 🥧 Justice of the Pies will have a Southern–inspired event in Avalon Park Sunday.

Plus, current James Beard nominees, past winners, and other local chefs shared their restaurant recommendations.