The Boston restaurant scene has a strong showing in this year’s list of James Beard Award semifinalists. Contenders for Best Chef Northeast include Philip Tang of the recently opened Banyan Bar + Refuge, Michael Scelfo of Alden & Harlow, Susan Regis of Shepard, Cassie Piuma of Sarma and Top Chef-fer Karen Akunowicz of Myers + Chang. Winners will be announced Monday, May 2nd but first, a round of applause for all the nominees.

Among the other Boston-based contenders…

Best New Restaurant: Shepard

Outstanding Baker:  Joanne Chang of Flour Bakery + Café and Myers + Chang

Outstanding Bar Program:  Café ArtScience and Row 34

Outstanding Chef: Ana Sortun of Oleana

Outstanding Pastry Chef: Maura Kilpatrick of Oleana

Outstanding Restaurateur: Garrett Harker of Eastern Standard, Island Creek Oyster Bar, Row 34, Row 34 Portsmouth, The Hawthorne and Branch Line.

Outstanding Service: L’Espalier and Strip-T’s

Outstanding Wine, Spirits, Or Beer Professional: Jim Koch of The Boston Beer Company

Rising Star Chef Of The Year: Irene Li of Mei Mei and Marc Sheehan of Loyal Nine