The long list of nominees for this year’s James Beard awards has hit the wires. Among the semi-finalists are a few familiar faces:
Ana Sortun of Oleana is in the running for Outstanding Chef;
Will Gilson of Garden at the Cellar is up for Rising Star;
Il Casale is among the candidates for Best New Restaurant; and
Il Capriccio may take top honors for Outstanding Wine Service.

In the Best Chef Northeast category:
Dante de Magistris for Il Casale in Belmont; Gabriel Frasca and Amanda Lydon of Straight Wharf on Nantucket; Steve Johnson of Rendezvous; Michael Leviton of Lumière; Tony Maws of Craigie on Main; and Marc Orfaly of Pigalle.

Peruse the entire list here. To say congratulations or to book a table before they all get scooped up, call the restaurants directly. The finalists will be announced on March 22nd and the winners will be named at the annual awards ceremony, scheduled for Monday, May 3rd.