N.H. Restaurant Makes James Beard Semifinalists

The James Beard Foundation has released its list of semifinalists, including one in New Hampshire, for its 30th annual culinary awards competition. The awards, now in their 30th year, are regarded as the Oscars of the culinary industry.

The semifinalists are in 11 categories: best new restaurant; outstanding restaurant; outstanding baker; outstanding pastry chef; outstanding chef; rising chef stars age 30 or younger; outstanding bar program; outstanding wine program; outstanding wine, beer or spirits producer; outstanding restaurateur; and outstanding hospitality.

In New Hampshire, the only semifinalists was the Black Trumpet Bistro in Portsmouth. It's a semifinalist for Outstanding Hospitality.

James Beard Foundation Semifinalists: The Full List

Finalists in all categories will be announced at a news conference at 9 a.m. EDT on March 25 in Philadelphia.

The list of semifinalists was voted on by more than 600 judges from across the country. The same group of judges — who include leading regional restaurant critics, food and wine editors, culinary instructors and past James Beard winners — vote to determine the finalists. The votes are tabulated by independent auditors from EisnerAmper.

The winners will be announced in May.