Hold onto your forks and cocktail glasses, Vegas foodies! The James Beard Foundation has rolled out its list of 2025 finalists, and our very own culinary maestros are making waves. Three of Las Vegas’s finest have clinched nominations, proving once again that what happens in Vegas doesn’t stay in Vegas—it gets nationally recognized.
Shaking and Stirring Up the Beverage Scene
Cristie Norman from Delilah has been nominated for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service. Apparently, her skills go beyond just pouring a decent drink—she’s elevating the Vegas cocktail scene to award-worthy heights.
Cooking Up a Storm in the Southwest
In the Best Chef: Southwest category, two of our local kitchen magicians are in the running:
- Sarah Thompson of Casa Playa: Bringing flair and flavor that’s turning heads and tantalizing taste buds.
- Eleazar Villanueva from Restaurant de Joël Robuchon: Continuing the legacy of fine dining with dishes that are as much art as they are cuisine.
These nominations highlight the exceptional talent simmering in our city’s kitchens.
Mark Your Calendars
The culinary champions will be crowned on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Until then, let’s raise a glass (preferably crafted by Cristie Norman) to our nominees and maybe, just maybe, make a reservation to taste what all the fuss is about.
2024 James Beard Winners
With all the prestigious chefs in Las Vegas, you’d think there would be several James Beard Award winners this year in this food mecca. But in 2024, there was only one in the America’s Classic category – The Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge.
What is the America’s Classics category?
According to the James Beard Award guidelines, it must be in business for at least 10 years and be “a locally and independently owned restaurant with timeless appeal, beloved in its region for food that reflects the character and cultural traditions of its community.”
And the Peppermill fits that description to a tee!
The Iconic Peppermill Restaurant
The Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge is a Las Vegas classic, known for its retro charm and vibrant atmosphere. Located on the Las Vegas Strip, it has been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists since it opened in 1972.
Nat Carasali and Bill Paganetti opened the Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge, quickly becoming a beloved Vegas landmark. The Peppermill has attracted everyone from mobsters and celebrities to Vegas workers like pit bosses and dancers.
Tourists, drawn by its appearances in movies like Casino and Showgirls, flock to sip mudslides among the neon lights.
What are the James Beard Awards?
The James Beard Awards are considered the “Oscars of the food world”! Since 1990, they have celebrated the best chefs, restaurants, and foodies in the U.S. Named after a famous chef, James Beard, they honor creativity and excellence in cooking and food culture.
How Do They Choose Winners?
- Nominations: Anyone can suggest their favorite chefs or restaurants.
- Review: A panel of food experts reviews all the nominations.
- Finalists and Winners: The best of the best are announced and celebrated at a big gala each year.
Winning a James Beard Award is a huge deal! It means the chef or restaurant is one of the best in the country. Plus, the awards highlight people who care about making food that’s not just tasty but also good for the planet and community.
