Two Las Vegas Eateries Finalists For James Beard Awards

LAS VEGAS, NV - If you're a Las Vegas foodie and haven't done so yet, you might want to check out these two local spots that have been named finalists for the 2018 James Beard Awards - which annually recognize culinary excellence across the United States.

Lotus of Siam and Flock & Fowl have both been recognized as finalists for this year's awards. Lotus of Siam is one of 20 finalists in the "Outstanding Wine Program" category. The Thai restaurant is located on 620 E. Flamingo Rd.

Flock & Fowl chef Sheridan Su is one of 20 finalists hoping to be named the best chef in the west. The best chef category is split into different regions. Those from California, Hawaii, and Nevada qualify to be named "Best Chef" in the west. Flock & Fowl has two Las Vegas locations - one on 380 W. Sahara Ave., and another inside The Ogden at 150 N. Las Vegas Blvd.

The foundation holds an online open call for entries every year. A committee reviews thousands of entries to come up with a nominating ballot of semifinalists in each category.

An independent volunteer panel of more than 600 judges — comprised of top regional restaurant critics, food and wine editors, culinary educators, and past winners — then votes on specific award categories to determine the final five nominees in each category.

They then vote on these five nominees to select the winners.

The foundation will announce the final nominees on the morning of March 14 at Parc in Philadelphia. The event will be live-streamed.

The winners will be announced at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers in New York City on April 27. They’ll receive a certificate and a medallion engraved with the James Beard Foundation Awards insignia. There are no cash prizes.

Click here to see the full list of awards.

Image via Mark Von Holden/Invision for James Beard Foundation/AP Images