The James Beard Award semifinalists are here, and Austin has nine nominees in the pipeline.

Frequently called the "Oscars of food," the James Beard Awards recognize some of the best and brightest in American culinary culture. Finalists will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, followed by the awards ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on Monday, June 15.

Austin is currently home to seven James Beard Award winners. Let's dig in on the restaurants in this year's running.

Outstanding Bakery: Mercado Sin Nombre

Also a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, this teeny cafe specializes in Mexican coffee and dishes with maíz. Mercado Sin Nombre is one of two Texas bakeries — joining Starship Bagel in Dallas — nominated in this category.

Barley Swine's contemporary cuisine was praised for its use of local ingredients and "global sophistication." | Photo by Richard Casteel

Outstanding Hospitality: Barley Swine

Lauded with one MICHELIN Star, Barley Swine's restaurateurs are also the minds behind Odd Duck and Sour Duck Market.

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Kalimotxo

Named for a Spanish drink that mixes red wine and Coca-Cola, the east Austin restaurant shares the nomination with one other restaurant from Texas: Taconeta in El Paso.

Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: Celia Pellegrini, Este

This seafood-forward restaurant is known for its daily $10 margarita happy hour.

Best Chef: Texas

Psst — Austin has more nominees in this category than any other Texas city.

Thai Changthong | P Thai's Khao Man Gai & Noodles
Michael Che | Tsuke Edomae
Ali Clem | La Barbecue
Daniela Landaverde and Rosa Landaverde | La Santa Barbacha
Bob Somsith | Lao'd Bar

While you wait to learn the fate of our nominees, check out the history of James Beard winners + semifinalists in Austin.