Columbia SC’s culinary scene recognized in three James Beard Award semifinalist categories
January 26, 2023
Three Columbia culinary powerhouses, including a restaurant group, restaurant and chef, have been named 2023 James Beard Awards® semifinalists. The three have been nominated in different award categories:
- Outstanding Restaurateur: Aaron Hoskins, Sarah Simmons, Nicole Storey, and Elie Yigo, City Grit Hospitality Group (SmallSUGAR, CITY GRIT, and Il Focolare Pizzeria)
- Outstanding Hospitality Presented by American Airlines: Lula Drake
- Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV): Jessica Shillato, Spotted Salamander
Sarah Simmons and Aaron Hoskins of City Grit Hospitality Group; Jessica Shillato, Spotted Salamander; Lula Drake
The greater Columbia SC restaurant scene has long caught the attention of national media outlets, including Food & Wine, Forbes, Southern Living, Eater, and more, but this is the first time that a local chef or restaurant has been named as a James Beard Award® semifinalist.
“Having not one but three James Beard semifinalists is a testament to our region’s culinary talent. We’ve long known that this group deserves this prestigious recognition and could not be prouder or more excited for them. It is a significant achievement.” Bill Ellen, president and CEO, Experience Columbia SC
The James Beard Foundation announced its 2023 Restaurant and Chef semifinalists for the James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One today. Nominees will be announced on Wednesday, March 29, and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 5, 2023, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Full list of semifinalists here.
About Experience Columbia SC
Experience Columbia SC is the region’s destination marketing organization. We’re responsible for all marketing efforts intended to help more visitors discover all that makes Columbia the real Southern hot spot. Think of us as the biggest cheerleader for the heart of South Carolina. For more information, please visit www.experiencecolumbiasc.com.
