The James Beard Awards (the Junos of cuisine, if you will) were announced yesterday. Although the Bay Area came up a wee bit short -- at least when compared to arty-farty New York City -- we did manage to score a few medallions. Most noteworthy? Timothy Hollingsworth of The French Laundry (Yountville) taking home the Rising Star Chef award, the Bay Area's second straight win.

Other local winners include Nicole Plue of Redd (Yountville), who was named Best Pastry Chef, David Kinch of Manresa (Los Gatos) took home Best Chef - Pacific (California/Hawaii), and chow.com won best food site.

Congratulations to all the winners. Now get in the kitchen and make us a sandwich.

Oh, and if you haven't already, check out Paolo Lucchesi's rundown on the scene from New York. He's taken over Michael Bauer's blog for the week, with delightful results.