Did You See This? James Beard Award Semifinalists in Montana

The restaurant scene in Montana has been earning some national recognition, and that's obvious if you check out the list of 2024 James Beard Award semifinalists. Restaurants in cities and towns across Montana have been receiving high praise lately. Here is a list of restaurants and chefs in Montana that have been named James Beard Award semifinalists.

WHAT IS A JAMES BEARD AWARD AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

If you're not familiar with the James Beard Awards, you're not alone. A James Beard Award is one of the most sought after and coveted awards in the restaurant industry. Here's a brief description from the James Beard Foundation website.

The mission of the James Beard Awards is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.

Several restaurants is Montana have been named semifinalists in the past, but none have actually won the prestigious award. We have a good feeling about this year because nine restaurants in Montana have been named James Beard semifinalists.

NINE MONTANA RESTAURANTS NAMED JAMES BEARD AWARD SEMIFINALISTS

The awards are separated in different categories. Find out which Montana restaurants were selected below.

Outstanding Restaurateur

• I-Ho Pomeroy, I-Ho's Korean Grill, Bozeman, MT

Best New Restaurant

• Shan, Bozeman, MT

Outstanding Bar

• Horn & Cantle Saloon, Big Sky, MT

Best Chef: Mountain (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY)

• Joshua Adams, Campione, Livingston, MT
• Charley Graham, Little Star Diner, Bozeman, MT
• Walker Hunter, Brasserie Porte Rouge, Missoula, MT
• Lee Johnson, MontAsia, Fishtail, MT
• Brandon Cunningham, Social Haus, Greenough, MT
• Nick Steen Gullings, Walkers Grill, Billings, MT

Winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 10 in Chicago.