(NEWS CENTER) -- Portland is widely known as a foodie city and the national culinary community agrees.
The James Beard Foundation, the Oscars of the food world, announced the semifinalists for its annual awards and 10 Maine restaurants and chefs were nominated.
Best New Restaurant
Central Provisions, Portland, Maine
Outstanding Baker
Alison Pray, Standard Baking Co., Portland, Maine
Outstanding Bar Program
Portland Hunt + Alpine Club, Portland, Maine
Outstanding Restaurant
Fore Street, Portland, Maine
Outstanding Wine, Beer or Spirits Professional
Rob Tod, Allagash Brewing Company, Portland, Maine
Rising Star of the Year
Cara Stadler, Tao Yuan, Brunswick, Maine
Best Chef: Northeast
Brian Hill, Francine Bistro, Camden, Maine
Masa Miyake, Miyake, Portland, Maine
Ravin Nakjaroen, Long Grain, Camden, Maine
Andrew Taylor and Mike Wiley, Eventide Oyster Co., Portland, Maine
The James Beard Awards will be announced in Chicago on May 4.
