Greenville’s Euphoria Festival: A Showcase for Future James Beard Honorees

The organizers of Euphoria Greenville, the Upstate’s annual food, wine, and music festival, don’t claim to have influenced the 2024 James Beard Foundation Awards announced on Jan. 24. However, they do take credit for giving many of the honorees a platform that often leads to greater notoriety.

Platform for Future Honorees

With numerous elements at play in the judging and selection process of the James Beard Awards, many factors contribute to a chef or restaurant’s recognition. What Morgan Allen, Euphoria’s executive director, will take credit for is providing a stage for talented individuals to showcase their skills and personalities. She believes that festivals like Euphoria help connect these culinary artists with journalists and industry experts, elevating their visibility and opportunities.

Noteworthy Recognition

This year alone, 16 chefs, beverage experts, and restaurateurs who have participated in Euphoria were named as semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Awards, the highest culinary honor in the United States. This recognition not only celebrates their talents but also opens doors to more opportunities, business success, and personal growth.

A Track Record of Success

Over the past five years, 103 James Beard nominations were given to Euphoria alumni or current participants. The festival, known for its diverse lineup of Michelin-starred chefs and talented individuals, has become a breeding ground for future culinary stars. Most of the honorees had attended Euphoria before gaining national recognition, showcasing the festival’s keen eye for talent.

Discovering Up-and-Coming Chefs

According to Allen, Euphoria’s scouting process for talent is a blend of research, recommendations from industry insiders, and word-of-mouth referrals. The festival aims to provide fresh experiences for guests by showcasing up-and-coming chefs who offer a new perspective on the culinary scene. By maintaining a reputation as a talent-friendly event that values hospitality and connections, Euphoria continues to attract top-tier participants.

Celebrating Success Stories

Notable chefs who have participated in Euphoria and received James Beard nominations include Dallas McGarity of Louisville, Kentucky, who earned his first Best Chef Southeast nomination this year. Such success stories reinforce Euphoria’s role in nurturing talent and contributing to the culinary landscape.

2024 James Beard Semifinalists from Euphoria

Outstanding Hospitality: Crawford & Son, Raleigh, North Carolina
Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages Program: COTE, New York City
Outstanding Pastry Chef: Tania Harris, Topsoil Kitchen & Market, Travelers Rest
Emerging Chef: Nikko Cagalanan, Kultura, Charleston
Outstanding Bar: Edmund’s Oast, Charleston
Outstanding Restaurateur: Kimball Brienza & Stephen Palmer, O-Ku Sushi, Charleston
Outstanding Chef: John & Karen Shields, Smyth, Chicago
Outstanding Chef: Emma Bengtsson, Aquavit, New York City
Best Chef Southeast: Jacques Larson, The Obstinate Daughter, Sullivan’s Island
Best Chef Southeast: Robbie Robinson, City Limits Barbeque, Cayce
Best Chef Southeast: Dallas McGarity, The Fat Lamb Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
Best Chef Southeast: Kiki Cyrus, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles, Columbia, South Carolina
Best Chef Great Lakes: Jose Salazar, Mita’s, Cincinnati
Best Chef New York State: Charlie Mitchell, Clover Hill, Brooklyn, New York
Best New Restaurant: Scoundrel, Greenville
Best New Restaurant: Atelier, Chicago