KC’s food scene rakes in eight James Beard Awards nominations
James Beard Awards medal. // Photo Courtesy of James Beard Foundation
After the Kansas City metro saw seven nominations for James Beard Awards in 2024, it seemed like a hard number to beat in the new year. But our city has a competitive spirit, as shown in our sports fandom, and holding true to that nature, we have outdone ourselves once again. Eight locals have been nominated for the 2025 James Beard Awards.
The James Beard Foundation praises exceptional work in the culinary field. To be nominated is a hat tip that the food or drink on a menu represents culinary talent and the creation of a community where everyone can thrive.
Best Chef in the Midwest—Johnny Leach of The Town Company, Katie Liu-Sung of Chewology, Linda Duerr of The Restaurant at 1900, Rozz Petrozz of Saltwell Farm Kitchen.
The Town Company, located inside Hotel Kansas City downtown, is a seasonal concept inspired by the warmth and rusticity of the Midwest, formed by executive chef Johnny Leach and pastry chef Helen Jo Leach who is also a nominee for a James Beard Award for “Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker”.
Chewology is Westport’s hub for Taiwanese street food. Intent on creating fresh and balanced plates, Katie Liu-Sung relies on local food and drink vendors to bring her vision to life.
Linda Duerr’s New England roots have found a home in Mission Hills with The Restaurant at 1900. Her zeal for French and Italian cooking is complemented by the unique architecture of the 1900 Building in which the restaurant resides.
Saltwell Farm Kitchen is a six-course experience set in a picturesque walnut tree grove. Crafted by Rozz Petrozz and his attention to detail, the goal is to shift the menu with the seasons to support local vendors and lean into that signature fresh taste.
Greenery at the entrance of Wild Child. // Photo by Sarah Sipple
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker—Helen Jo Leach of The Town Company
One half of the magic equation at The Town Company is executive pastry chef Helen Jo Leach. Her focus on native ingredients gives her dessert menu midwestern comfort and an artistic edge.
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Services—Jay Sanders of Wild Child
Innovation is in no short supply at Wild Child. In the quaint flowery oasis of the bar room, Jay Sanders crafts cocktails and mocktails that play with eye-catching architectural display.
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program—JJ’s Restaurant
JJ’s Restaurant is led by Jimmy Frantzé and Matt Nichols who were determined to rebuild after a devastating fire in 2013 threatened to close them down. It’s a fine-dining destination for steaks, wine, and contemporary American fare.
Outstanding Bar—John Brown’s Underground in Lawrence, KS
John Brown’s Underground is a cocktail bar in downtown Lawrence where their cocktails aren’t their only avenue of creativity. Customers will also find illustrated menus and a handful of witty drink names.
