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Meet KC’s Latest James Beard Award Finalist
Kansas City’s reputation as a city filled with outstanding dining experiences continues to grow, most recently emphasized by chef Michael Corvino’s selection as a finalist for the James Beard Award—one of America’s most prestigious food awards.
Corvino first received recognition as a semifinalist in 2018 before earning a place as one of five finalists in the Best Chef: Midwest category in 2019. Winners will be announced May 6.
Corvino’s Crossroads restaurant, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room, prepares New American tastes that have become a mainstay in Kansas City’s dining landscape. Striking both visually and conceptually, the restaurant is celebrated for its nightly dinner menus, late-night dining and intimate tasting experiences in a private setting.
In addition to Corvino’s place as a finalist for Best Chef: Midwest, a record number of area restaurants garnered honors as James Beard Award semifinalists in a variety of categories:
Outstanding Baker: Taylor Petrehn, 1900 Barker
This year marks the third consecutive recognition for 1900 Barker and Petrehn, who earned his first nod as a semifinalist just two years after opening the cozy Lawrence bakery.
Outstanding Bar Program: The Monarch Bar
This Country Club Plaza standout features a refined cocktail menu that perfectly complements the bar’s sharp design, making The Monarch Bar a must-visit.
Rising Star Chef of the Year: Calvin Davis, Freshwater
Davis’ thoughtful and intimate Midtown kitchen crafts locally-sourced small plates and extensive tasting menus featuring 10 or more courses.
Best Chef, Midwest: Nicholas Goellner, The Antler Room
Sample Goellner’s Mediterranean small plates at the charming, buzzy Antler Room, tucked away in KC’s Union Hill neighborhood.
Best Chef, Midwest: Linda Duerr, The Restaurant at 1900
The Restaurant at 1900 opened to much fanfare in 2018, with chef Linda Duerr preparing regionally-inspired dishes in an art-adorned modernist space.