The James Beard Foundation has released their 2009 Nominees for Restaurants and Chefs. The James Beard Awards are the Oscars of the food world.

Here in Southern California, we are proud that the following restaurateurs and authors have been nominated for their various categories. The James Beard Awards will be held May 3 and 4.

OUTSTANDING CHEF AWARD

Suzanne Goin
Lucques
Los Angeles

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills
Los Angeles
Chef/Owner: José Andrés

OUTSTANDING WINE SERVICE AWARD

Patina
Los Angeles
Wine Director: Eric Espuny

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

Jonathan Gold
LA Weekly
“A Proper Brasserie,” “A Fine Palate,” “Pho Town”

BOOKS – BAKING

The Art and Soul of Baking
by Cindy Mushet, Sur La Table
(Andrews McMeel Publishing)