Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Visit Buffalo is pushing for nine local chefs to be considered for the 2027 James Beard Awards, which are considered the "Oscars of Food". Ryan Fernandez of Southern Junction and celebrity chef Darian Bryan, who just won Fox's Next Level Chef in May, are among those getting support from Visit Buffalo. The full list of chefs and their categories is below:
BEST CHEF NEW YORK STATE
- Bruce Wieszala, Beacon Grille
- Jennifer Boye, Moriarty Meats & Cafe
- Ryan Fernandez, Southern Junction
- Manny Ocasio, Mira
- Darian Bryan, Bratts Hill and Reserve
- Jenn Batt, Quokka Sweets
- Gina Ocasio, Mira
- Kevin and Melissa Gardner, Five Points Bakery
- Colleen Stillwell, Butter Block
Crosby's and West Herr are awarding a new 2026 Ford Bronco to the winner of Crosby's Roadtrip to Rewards promotion Friday morning. Crosby's has 90 locations throughout Western New York and Northwest Pennsylvania.
Northtown Subaru and the SPCA Serving Erie County are teaming up this month for the Subaru Loves Pets initiative. Northtown Subaru is donating $4,000 to the SPCA and will host an adoption event Saturday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at its 3930 Sheridan Drive showroom in Amherst. Visitors will be able to meet cats and dogs looking for their forever homes.
To make a submission to the West Herr WBEN Buffalo Business Report, send an email to newsroom@wben.com or lucas.buckley@audacy.com.
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