James Beard Archives - Lewiston Sun Journal

Maine shut out of James Beard Award final round for first time in 11 years

None of the state’s 9 semifinalists moved on in the annual competition, often called the Oscars of the food world. That hasn’t happened since 2014.

Nominees include Taj in South Portland and The Abbey in Brunswick, while 3 southern Maine chefs are nominated in the Best Chef: Northeast category.

Atsuko Fujimoto of Norimoto Bakery won for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker and Barak Olins’ ZUbakery took home the award for Outstanding Bakery.

They are Zu Bakery, Atsuko Fujimoto of Norimoto Bakery, Woodford Food & Beverage and Jake Stevens of Leeward.