BUFFALO, N.Y. — Two Buffalo restaurants have been named as 2024 James Beard Award finalists.
Southern Junction and Waxlight Bar a Vin on Wednesday were both announced as finalists for the awards, which recognize exceptional talent and achievement in industries including culinary arts and hospitality.
Southern Junction, on Connecticut Street, is a finalist in the "Emerging Chef" category. Waxlight Bar a Vin, on Chandler Street, was recognized in the "Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program" category.
Both businesses were first announced as semifinalists back in January. The winners will be announced June 10 in Chicago.
Southern Junction was recently featured on 2 On Your Side's Out 2 Eat segment with Lauren Hall. The chef and owner, Ryan Fernandez, grew up in Texas, where he developed a love and appreciation for barbecue.
The business started on Chandler Street and has since moved to Connecticut Street, where his restaurant highlights his roots form both Texas and India. Fernandez describes the food as "Tex-ish."
This is the first time Southern Junction is being recognized by the James Beard Foundation. Fernandez was recognized in the "Emerging Chef" category, which goes to "a chef who displays exceptional talent, character, and leadership ability, and who is likely to make a significant impact in years to come while contributing positively to their broader community."
Waxlight Bar a Vin was recognized in the "Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program" category, which goes to "a restaurant that demonstrates exceptional care and skill in the pairing of wine and other beverages with food while contributing positively to its broader community."
This is the second time Waxlight Bar a Vin has been recognized. The fine dining restaurant on Chandler Street is described as a modern, wine-focused restaurant.
"The mission of the James Beard Awards is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive," the James Beard Foundation said.