From left, Peter Hoglund, Danette Stuckey, Bobby Stuckey, Sergei Kiefel, Lachlan Mackinnon Patterson and Alberto Hernandez attend the 2025 James Beard awards Monday in Chicago. Photo: Jeff Schear/Getty Images for James Beard Foundation
Boulder's beloved dining room at Frasca Food and Wine was crowned a winner at the 2025 James Beard Awards, earning the Outstanding Restaurant honor at yesterday's ceremony in Chicago.
Why it matters: Although the upscale Italian eatery has previously been recognized by the Beard Foundation, this is the Pearl Street restaurant's first time as a finalist in this category and pushes the city's culinary scene further into the national spotlight.
Catch up quick: Frasca beat out four other restaurants scattered across the country. The Outstanding Restaurant category is among the James Beard Foundation's highest honors, recognizing restaurants that deliver consistent excellence.
Zoom out: First nominated in 2016, master sommelier Bobby Stuckey and chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson opened Frasca in 2004.
It has since collected a variety of national nods, including James Beard Awards for Outstanding Wine Program and Outstanding Service, and consecutive Michelin Stars in 2023 and 2024.
What he's saying: Stuckey took the stage and shouted: "Our industry is frickin' beautiful."
Like other winners, he emphasized the importance of immigrants to the restaurant world amid federal raids. "If you are new to this country and don't speak the language, the hospitality industry is here for you," he said from the podium.
State of play: The Frasca Hospitality Group operates several Colorado restaurants, including Pizzeria Alberico, which sits next door to Frasca, and Tavernetta and Sunday Vinyl in Denver.
Last year, the team opened a second Tavernetta location tucked inside the Four Seasons Resort Vail.
