Food

Local Man Named America's 'Best New Chef'

The Food & Wine Magazine Honor Goes To Philly Chef

PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ― For local entrepreneurs Jim and Kristina Burke, the line between business and pleasure is hard to distinguish. As the owners of 'James' in the Bella Vista section of Philadelphia, they describe their business as a labor of love.

Kristina, who acts as the General Manager said, "We love what we do, we love food, we love wine, we love connecting with people through food and wine."

The husband and wife duo are never far from the office since they live in the same building as the restaurant. They are also rarely seen apart as they have worked together for nine of the ten years they have been acquainted.

"It's something we're very used to, it's something we're good at and we enjoy it very much," said Jim.

For this couple, loving what they do has paid off in a big way as Jim was recently named 'Best New Chef' by Food & Wine Magazine.

Jim said he was excited and pleased by the honor.

"We were certainly the youngest restaurant, which makes us feel good, it makes us feel like we started out strong and we're doing the right thing."

Chosen for his unique culinary vision, Jim considers the restaurant's seasonal pasta dishes his specialty. "We buy from local farmers year round, not just in the peak of summer season and it makes a difference in our cooking."

James' impressive menu and formal, yet friendly atmosphere may have earned Burke the honor of being named best chef, but he says it doesn't compare to the woman who made it possible.

Burke said, "I think my greatest accomplishment is getting this restaurant opened with my wife … this is exactly what we wanted and we got it."

RELATED LINKS:
www.jameson8th.com

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