Miami's 9 James Beard Award semifinalist nominations

Miami's food scene has once again been recognized as one of the best in the country.

Driving the news: A total of nine Miami restaurants, chefs, bakeries and bars were announced yesterday as semifinalists for the 2023 James Beard Awards.

Who made the cut: Some of Miami's most popular spots are on the list, including Michelin-starred restaurant Ariete and Little Havana's Cafe La Trova.

• Outstanding Restaurateur: Mohamed Ali Alkassar and Niven Patel, Alpareno Restaurant Group (Ghee Indian Kitchen, Orno, and Mamey).
• Outstanding Chef: Michael Schwartz, Michael's Genuine Food & Drink in the Design District.
• Outstanding Restaurant: Ariete in Coconut Grove.
• Emerging Chef: Akino West, Rosie's in Little River.
• Outstanding Bakery: Zak the Baker in Wynwood.
• Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Manuel and Jesús Brazón, Caracas Bakery in Doral.
• Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Macchialina in Miami Beach.
• Outstanding Bar: Cafe La Trova.
• Best Chef, South: Fernando, Nando and Valerie Chang, Itamae.

Of note: South Florida's tri-county area also received some love in this list, especially in the best chef category. Semifinalists in that category include:

• Timon Balloo, The Katherine in Fort Lauderdale.
• Jeremy and Cindy Bearman, Oceano Kitchen in Lantana.
• Rick Mace, Tropical Smokehouse in West Palm Beach.
• Pushkar Marathe, Stage in Palm Beach Gardens.
• Lojo Washington, Queen of Sheeba in West Palm Beach.

What's ahead: James Beard will announce its nominees on March 29 and the winners on June 5.