South Dakota Chefs Make Waves As James Beard Semifinalists

A pair of chefs from South Dakota are two steps away from snagging one of the top food awards in the country.

Camillia Hjortnaes and Erik Hjortnaes of Hjem A.M. in Custer are among the semifinalists for a 2026 James Beard Foundation Award.

The annual awards are given to 'individuals and/or organizations whose work is helping to create a safer, more healthful, equitable, and sustainable food world. The Awards are given for achievement in developing a global food system that is just, sustainable, and economically viable for both producers and consumers.'

Camilla and Erik are one of 20 nominated in the 'Best Chef: Midwest (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD, WI)' category.

READ MORE: Sioux Falls Gearing Up For Exciting Hot Dish Showdown

Hjem A.M. opened in the Black Hills in 2022, taking its name from the Danish word for 'home'.

According to the restaurant's website, the menu’s focus is 'seasonality and is inspired by Scandinavian/American flavors.'

The finalists will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The awards were established in 1990 and are named after American chef, cookbook author, and teacher James Beard, who is widely recognized as one of the first chefs to appear regularly on television.

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