New Orleans-based chef Alon Shaya was awarded the esteemed title of “Best Chef: South” from the James Beard Foundation earlier this week. With three New Orleans restaurants—Domenica, its sister spot Pizza Domenica, and Shaya—the Israeli chef was thrilled when he accepted his award at Chicago’s Civic Opera House, saying, “I’m an Israeli who grew up in Philly and is cooking in New Orleans, and somehow that all comes together and tastes good.”
Though this was his first big win, Shaya has been on JBF’s radar for a while now, earning past nominations for this same category for the last three years. As his newest, his eponymous restaurant offers New Orleans locals modern Israeli cuisine and draws influence from North Africa, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Turkey and Greece. The menu uses local produce to create an evolving selection that reflects Israel’s growing culture and culinary scene. Like his other eateries, Shaya uses a wood-fire oven as the menu’s focal point.
Also nominated for Best Chef: South were New Orleans talents Justin Devillier of La Petite Grocery and Balise, and Slade Rushing of the newer Brennan’s Restaurant.
