A Jersey City chef and a Journal Square restaurant are among 2020’s James Beard semifinalists. Named after American cook, James Beard, the prestigious James Beard awards are like the Oscars of the culinary world.
This year, Dan Richer has been nominated semifinalist for the regional “best chef Mid-Atlantic” award for his work at Razza. Back in 2017, the New York Times named Richer’s pies the best pizza in New York. Whether you’re having the classic Margherita or the Project Hazelnut, Razza’s pizzas are impeccable and deliver a perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and crispiness with every mouthful. The pizzas aren’t the only star at Razza. The meatballs, fresh bread/butter, and seasonal salads are also must-have dishes, making it one of the best Jersey City restaurants.
Meanwhile, 15 Fox Place has been nominated for “Outstanding Hospitality.” The house-turned-restaurant is operated by Kathryn Budinich, who lived at 15 Fox Place before converting it into a full-scale Italian restaurant. The Journal Square-based restaurant has no set menu; instead, you eat what Budinich has in store for the evening.
Other Garden State semifinalists include Maricel Presilla of Cucharamama (Hoboken), Robbie Felice of Viaggio Ristorante (Wayne), and restaurateur Cookie Till (Margate). You can read the full list of semifinalists here.
This 2020 James Beard Awards will be held on May 4 in Chicago.
