The Arizona culinary scene could be on the brink of something big. For years, the state’s chefs and restaurateurs have been overlooked by the literal taste-makers who decide who wins the Oscars of the food world — the James Beard Awards.
But this year is different. This year, Arizona had 10 semi-finalists named — including many young chefs on their way up. And now, one of those chefs is going on to the finals. Charleen Badman of Scottsdale’s FnB is up for Best Chef: Southwest.
So, does this mean Arizona food is finally getting its due? For more on that, The Show reached out to Howard Seftel, the retired longtime restaurant critic for the Arizona Republic — who knows Arizona food probably better than anyone.
