Staplehouse
Staplehouse
Chef Ryan Smith
Chef Ryan Smith

Chef Ryan Smith’s Staplehouse in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward, which recently added Sunday brunch to its lineup, is a semifinalist for best new restaurant in the 26th annual James Beard Foundation’s Restaurant and Chef awards. Previous Beard winner Hugh Acheson of Athens’ Five & Ten is a semifinalist for outstanding restaurant.

[READ MORE: THE STAPLEHOUSE STORY BEGINS WITH FAMILY AND CANCER]

James Andrew Beard (1903-1985), the awards’ namesake, was an American cookbook author, teacher, syndicated columnist and TV personality who championed American cuisine and mentored generations of professional chefs and food enthusiasts. These awards are presented each year near his birthday.

Other metro Atlanta semifinalists:

Finalists will be announced March 15. Restaurant and chef winners will be announced at a May 2 gala in Chicago. Go HERE for a full list of semifinalists in all categories.