Photo by Josh Grubbs
Several Minnesota-based culinary talents made it to the final round of the 2020 James Beard Awards. Among the finalists for Best New Restaurant in the U.S. is Demi, the latest project for Gavin Kaysen (Spoon + Stable, Bellecour). Four Twin Cities chefs also reached the finals.
Demi was named Minnesota Monthly food editor Jason DeRusha’s top new restaurant, as well. One of the hottest reservations in town, Kaysen’s intimate space has pushed boundaries for service in the Twin Cities.
Up for Best Pastry Chef: Midwest is Kaysen’s frequent collaborator Diane Moua, who has developed amazing desserts at Spoon + Stable, Bellecour, and Demi. She was also a finalist in 2018.
Three finalists for Best Chef: Midwest are Steven Brown of Tilia (finalist in 2017 and 2018), Jamie Malone of Grand Café (finalist in 2019), and Christina Nguyen of Hai Hai (finalist in 2019).
Due to schedule and format changes related to COVID-19, the James Beard finalists were announced later than usual. The winners in restaurant and chef categories will be announced on Friday, September 25, 2020, from Chicago.
