NYC People and Places Shine at the JB Awards

The annual James Beard Awards took place last night at Avery Fisher Hall in Lincoln Center and some of the city's talent walked away with great honors.

Paul Grieco won for Outstanding Wine, Beer, or Spirits Professional, PDT won for Outstanding Bar Program, and La Grenouille gets the Outstanding Service award. 

Christina Tosi, the mind behind Momofuku's Milk Bar empire, won the Rising Star Chef of the Year award, one that is given to "A chef age 30 or younger who displays an impressive talent and who is likely to have a significant impact on the industry in years to come."

Responsible for the kitchens at The Nomad and Eleven Madison Park, Daniel Humm takes home the Outstanding Chef award for his work at EMP.

After some time away from the kitchen to recover from open-heart surgery, Gramercy Tavern chef Michael Anthony won the award for Best Chef: New York City.

Here's the list of all the winners and photo's from last nights event.

James Shaves His Beard Tonight at Lincoln Center

The annual James Beard Awards are being held tonight at Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center.  The awards highlight North America's gastronomic elite, and from upcoming chefs to restaurant of the year, you can follow the awards in real time via the JBF blog.

In honor of the foundation's 25 years, the Empire State Building will be lit up with orange and yellow lights tonight.

Here's a recap of the JBF Book, Broadcast & Journalism Awards that took place Friday.  Congrats to Gabrielle Hamiliton for winning the Writing and Literature award for her excellent memoir Blood, Bones, and Butter.

James Beard 2012 Semifinalists Announced This Morning

The long list of semifinalists for the James Beard Awards was revealed today.  It will see a significant chop next month in Vegas and leave us with the finalists for the ceremony to be held Monday, May 7th at Lincoln Center.

Isa, Tertulia, and Tremont get nods for best new restaurant.

Exciting rising star chef nominees in Emma Hearst (Sorella), Max Sussman (Roberta's), Jesse Schenker (Recette), and Noah Bernamoff (Mile End).