Chef Tim McKee wins James Beard Award

THE GUTHRIE THEATER CONGRATULATES CHEF TIM McKEE
WINNER OF THE JAMES BEARD AWARD

McKee to open new restaurant at the Guthrie in July

(Minneapolis/St. Paul) The Guthrie Theater congratulates Chef Tim McKee, named Best Chef: Midwest at last night's prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards in New York. The James Beard Foundation Awards is the nation's most prestigious recognition program honoring professionals in the food and beverage industries. McKee was honored during a ceremony hosted by Cat Cora, Emeril Lagasse and Stanley Tucci at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall.

Currently one of Minnesota's most celebrated chefs, McKee has earned critical acclaim for his Minnesota restaurants Barrio, La Belle Vie, Smalley's Caribbean Barbeque & Pirate Bar and Solera. In July, McKee opens his latest venture - a new restaurant at the Guthrie Theater. McKee will create the concept, menu, recipes, plating guides, and establish the "DNA" of the new dining destination, and provide ongoing leadership to the Guthrie's culinary and service teams.

"We're thrilled that Tim has received this well-deserved recognition," Guthrie Director Joe Dowling said. "We're very proud that the Guthrie will soon be home to one of the best chefs in the country."

Chef McKee is one of the most recognized and respected chefs in the Midwest. He has the unique distinction of having earned perfect four-star reviews from the Minneapolis Star Tribune for both Solera and La Belle Vie.  In addition, his talents have reaped well-earned praise from a wide range of regional and national food critics as well as his peers. 

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