Norberto Garita of El Barzon.

Norberto Garita of El Barzon.


Norberto Garita of El Barzon in Southwest Detroit.

Detroit's always had some good restaurants. But the landscape has grown and it gets national recognition.

The latest: Six chefs and restaurants in the city are semifinalists for national or regional James Beard Awards. Three suburban spots and one in Ann Arbor also are listed. Finalists will be announced March 27.

Here are Southeast Michigan contenders in five categories:

Best new restaurant:

  • Marrow, Detroit

Best chef, Great Lakes region:

  • Norberto Garita, El Barzon, Detroit

  • Anthony Lombardo, SheWolf, Detroit

  • Kate Williams, Lady of the House, Detroit

Rising star chef of the year

  • Lena Sareini, Selden Standard, Detroit

  • Genevieve Vang, Bangkok 96, Dearborn

  • James Rigato, Mabel Gray, Hazel Park

Outstanding baker

  • Lisa Ludwinski, Sister Pie, Detroit

Outstanding service

  • Zingerman's Roadhouse, Ann Arbor