The Comfort Kitchen Restaurant in Uphams Corner, which opened last January, has been named a semifinalist for Best New Restaurant in 2023 in the prestigious 2024 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards. Overall, the competition involves 30 semifinalists nationwide.

The Beard Awards are considered the gold standard of the restaurant and culinary world and are bestowed annually on purveyors from coast to coast.

Finalist nominees will be announced on Wed., April 3, and winners will be announced at a ceremony on Mon., June 10, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Established in 1990, the Awards 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 executive team at Comfort Kitchen includes Managing Partner Biplaw Rai, Organizational Development Partner Nyacko Pearl Perry, Chef Partner Kwasi Kwaa, Chef du Cuisine Shelley Nason, GM and Beverage Director Kyisha Davenport, and Branding Partner Rita Ferreira.