DES MOINES, Iowa — A Des Moines chef is officially a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation's "Best Chef: Midwest" award.
Chris Hoffman of Clyde's Fine Diner is one of just 15 semifinalists from across the Midwest to be recognized. Notably, Hoffman is the only Iowa chef on the list.
"I'm overwhelmed with emotion and incredibly honored," Hoffman said on the Clyde's Fine Diner Facebook page. "It's odd to be singled out among such a talented team I have working with me. I'm just one of the cooks in this kitchen."
Hoffman went on to recognize his fellow chefs and front-of-house staff, writing, "It's a huge honor for this team, thank you so much to all of you. It's great to be noticed in Des Moines among many other talented chefs and great restaurants."
Located in the East Village, Clyde's Fine Diner opened just a few years ago in late 2019. The restaurant is now known among central Iowa residents for its upscale takes on diner classics and its craft cocktails.
While Hoffman is the only Iowan nominated this year, other central Iowa chefs and restauranteurs have been recognized in the past, including:
- George Formaro, Centro
- Steve Logsdon, Lucca
- Joe Logsdon, La Mie Bakery
- Nic Gonwa of Eatery A
- Jason Simon, Alba
- Joe Tripp, Harbinger
Finalists for the award will be announced on April 3, while winners will be named at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 10.