It’s a big day for a select number of chefs — the James Beard Foundation has narrowed down their long list of semifinalists to their top picks of talented cookers, including a few local folks. Winners in the cookbook categories will be announced on April 26th, while champs in the chef and restaurant categories will be crowned at the James Beard Awards Gala on Monday, May 6th at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. The peeps from the Boston area who made the cut are below, and you can see the whole list here.

Outstanding Baker
Maura Kilpatrick of Sofra Bakery and Café

Outstanding Restaurateur
(Presented by Magellan Corporation)
Ken Oringer of Uni, Toro, Coppa and Little Donkey

Best Chef: Northeast
Tiffani Faison of Sweet Cheeks Q, Tiger Mama and Fool’s Errand
Tony Messina of Uni
Cassie Piuma of Sarma