“We’re thrilled to showcase the city of Houston and bring our 2019 James Beard Awards nominees announcement to this diverse and vibrant culinary and dining scene,” Reichenbach said. “The city of Houston’s dedication to cultivating and embracing its local restaurants and culinary talent make it the perfect community for such an occasion.”

Hugo Ortega, co-owner and founder of Hugo's, was the 2017 James Beard winner for Best Chef Southwest. Ortega will also host a benefit dinner for the James Beard Foundation on March 26 at Caracol. Featured chefs also include James Beard winners Irma Galvan, Robert Del Grande, Chris Shepherd, and Justin Yu, plus semi-finalists Terrence Gallivan and Seth Siegel-Gardner, Bobby Heugel, and Anita Jaisinghani. Tickets are $256 and available here.

The 2019 James Beard Awards will be held April 26 in New York City (Media Awards) and May 6 in Chicago (Restaurant and Chef, Restaurant Design categories).