Several New Orleanians nominated for James Beard awards tonight

The James Beard awards, often called the Oscars of the food world, will be announced tonight in Chicago. The local nominees are:

• Best chef in the South: Ana Castro (Acamaya) and Serigne Mbaye (Dakar NOLA)
• Outstanding restaurateur: Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski
• Emerging chef: E.J. Lagasse (Emeril's)

Zoom in: New Orleans writer Boyce Upholt won a media award over the weekend.

What's next: Follow our colleagues in Chicago tonight for coverage.