In the glittering world of culinary arts, the James Beard Award is widely regarded as the “Oscars of Food.” After eight nominations, Filipino-born American chef Margarita Lorenzana Manzke has finally clinched the prestigious accolade in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker category.
Margarita’s long-awaited triumph was announced during the live ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on June 5, 2023. A co-owner of République in Los Angeles, California, Margarita bested four other nominees, including fellow Filipino Vince Bugtong of ABACA restaurant in San Francisco.
Lorenzana-Manzke is a 6-time finalist nominee for the Outstanding Pastry Chef (2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017) and two-time semi-finalist (2016, 2015) in the James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards
The foundation recognized Margarita Manzke’s exceptional skill, her positive contribution to the broader community, and the irresistible desserts, pastries, and breads she crafts. The Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker category represents a fusion of the former Outstanding Pastry Chef and Outstanding Baker categories. It was the stage for Margarita’s achievement, reaffirming her as one of the most inspiring culinary artists of our time.
And it's finally happened! After 6 finalist nominations and 2 semi finalist landings, Filipina American chef Margarita Lorenzana-Manzke has been named the Outstanding Pastry Chef of the James Beard Awards for Restaurants and Chefs! https://t.co/zaHZHgmyKi
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) June 6, 2023
Born and raised in the Philippines, Margarita began her gastronomic journey in the City of Angels at acclaimed restaurants such as Patina, Spago, and Mélisse. The culinary star later spread her wings, opening award-winning establishments like the Petty Cash Taqueria, Sari Sari Store, and République with her husband, Walter Manzke.
At République, Margarita consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional pastry making, infusing her creations with distinct techniques and flavors. Her relentless innovation has kept the restaurant in the limelight, frequently appearing on the Los Angeles Times “101 Best” list and being recommended by Bill Addison, the well-known restaurant critic.
Beyond her American ventures, Margarita co-owns the successful Wildflour Café + Bakery chain in Manila, her hometown. Her journey back to her roots didn’t stop there. She opened Sari Sari Store in LA’s historic Grand Central Market, introducing her distinctive take on Filipino food to the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.
Margarita’s rise to culinary fame reached another milestone with the opening of Bicyclette Bistro in Beverly Hills, and the refined tasting-menu concept ‘Manzke’ in 2022. Her contributions extend internationally with 16 branches of Wildflour Bakery and Cafés in the Philippines.
The James Beard Awards, initiated in 1990, honors individuals who excel in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and the broader food system. The award also lauds a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community sustainability, and fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Margarita Manzke’s journey is an inspiring tale of determination, passion, and creativity, culminating in her winning one of the nation’s most prestigious honors in the culinary world – a testament to her unique contributions to the ever-evolving global culinary landscape.
Earlier on Sunday, June 5th, Filipino celebrity chef Erwan Heussaff won the James Beard Media Award for his Social Media Account on Instagram which features Filipino food.
SEND CONGRATULATIONS in the comments below to Margarita Lorenzana Manzke for finally bagging her James Beard Award as Outstanding Pastry Chef!
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