For the first time in many years, a Tampa Chef has been named a finalist for a James Beard Award! You may have dined at his restaurant before, but if you haven't, you'll definitely want to dine there for a delicious date night!
James Beard Award Finalist Bryce Bonsack for Best Chef: South
Executive Chef and Owner of Rocca, Bryce Bonsack, has been named as a finalist for one of the highest honors in the food and hospitality industry in America, specifically noting his significant contributions within the Tampa Bay area.
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>Chef Bonsack brought his culinary expertise to the Tampa Bay area, winning a Michelin star in 2023 and 2024 for his restaurant Rocca. We had the chance to experience Chef Bonsack's expertise in full force at Rocca.
Trust us when we say that this nomination is very well deserved. Standing as one of Tampa's Michelin Star-awarded restaurants, Rocca is easily considered one of the best of the best in the Tampa Bay Area, featuring Italian cuisine with a modern flair.
If you've never heard of the James Beard Awards, here's a look into what's considered the “Oscars of food.”
What is the James Beard Awards?
James Beard was an American chef, cookbook author, and television personality. Since 1990, the award has been the highest honor in the American food and hospitality industry.
Presented annually by the James Beard Award Foundation, the awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts.
What is the criterion for winning?
Winners are selected through an intense process that includes industry professionals, journalists, and past winners. Judges evaluate candidates by:
- Culinary skill and technique
- Innovation and impact on dining culture
- Integrity and alignment in the values of the foundation
- Leadership and contribution to the industry
- Consistency with good quality food
There are over 25 different categories that chefs from all around the country are able to enter, and we're wishing Chef Bonsack the best of luck in his running for Best Chef: South!