Years before the Michelin Guide arrived in Texas, the acclaimed James Beard Foundation was already making waves in the Lone Star State. This year, a formidable 13 Texas restaurants and chefs are finalists for the culinary awards,

The Houston area has four nominees for the Oscars of the food industry. Two other Houstonians will receive special awards.

On June 16, the winners of the “Oscars of food,” as the James Beard Awards have been called, were announced. From Houston, the sole winner is Thomas Bille at Belly of the Beast in the Best Chef: Texas category.