Colorado lands 5 James Beard finalists

• Denver's own Johnny Curiel (Alma Fonda Fina) and Penelope Wong (Yuan Wonton) are finalists in the Best Chef: Mountain category, which includes Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah and Wyoming.

The big picture: Five local restaurants and chefs advanced in one of the industry's most closely watched and prestigious honors.

Two additional finalists with local ties include:

• Denver's McLain Hedges and Mary Allison Wright (Yacht Club) for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
• Denver's Ryan Fletter (Barolo Grill) for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service.

What's next: Winners will be announced June 15 in Chicago.