James Beard Comes Calling on Both Coasts

Miami and L.A. are at the center of sizzling style and their dining venues are no different, with ravishing restaurants like Lucques and Mr Chow at W South, among a bevy of too many others to list here.

Back in February, the James Beard Foundation made their first cuts for the 2010 awards, announcing the semi-finalists. Monday was round two on the chopping blocks. Sadly, a slew of some of our favorite chefs and restaurants did not survive the blade, so it will be up to a select few to bring home the ultimate prize in the culinary world. Through a beautiful blend of the various ethnicities swarming these two cities, restaurants such as these provide guests with international tastes that could satisfy even the toughest critic.

Best Chef: South

• Zach Bell Café Boulud at the Brazilian Court Palm Beach, FL
• Michael Schwartz Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink Miami

Outstanding Chef Award

• Suzanne Goin Lucques Los Angeles

Best Chef: Pacific

• Michael Cimarusti Providence Los Angeles
• Matt Molina Osteria Mozza Los Angeles

Regardless of a victory, both Los Angeles and Miami are proud to have such talented chefs represent the elegance and excitement of their cities.  We will have to wait until May 2 for the final choices but until then continue enjoying these haute spots.