Chef Tara Monsod is San Diego's first-ever James Beard Award finalist

• Other local chefs have been recognized by the James Beard Foundation, but none have reached the finals.

What they're saying: "This is only the beginning — we're going to keep pushing the culture and industry forward," Monsod said in a statement to Axios.

• She said she's "grateful and honored" and thanked her team, family, friends and community.

Dig in: Monsod brings Filipino flavors to the kitchen at Animae, an upscale Wagyu steakhouse and Asian-fusion restaurant near the waterfront downtown.

• It's Michelin-recommended and was one of San Diego Magazine's Best Restaurants of 2023.

Later this spring, Monsod will also become executive chef at Le Coq, a French steakhouse opening in La Jolla.

• Both restaurants are part of the Puffer Malarkey Collective, a San Diego-based hospitality group.

What's next: Winning chefs and restaurants will be announced at the James Beard Awards ceremony on June 10 in Chicago.