2 Culinary Talents from Southern Arizona Shine as James Beard Award Semifinalists

Two culinary artists from Southern Arizona have earned recognition as semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard Award. Jose Contreras, the chef-owner of Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen in Tucson, is a contender for Best Chef in the Southwest, while Jacqueline Ayd Oatman, owner of Patisserie Jacqui in Bisbee, is nominated for Outstanding Bakery.

Contreras expressed his disbelief at the nomination, stating, “We’ve worked hard. I still cannot believe it.” He operates two locations of Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen, showcasing dishes inspired by his late grandmother’s recipes. Emphasizing community engagement, he noted, “The menu is for locals.” Contreras aims to create a welcoming family atmosphere while maintaining a strong local focus in their offerings.

Contreras’ first location is at 5553 E. Grant Rd., which prompted the opening of a second site at 5851 N. Oracle Rd. in 2024 due to increasing demand. He highlighted their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, stating, “We cook with ingredients from Tucson, not brought in from other states.” Contreras believes the culinary scene in Tucson is garnering national attention, asserting, “Everybody’s looking to Tucson now.”

Ayd, in her turn, shared her surprise at being named a semifinalist. Her journey began with baking under a cottage license, evolving into a successful bakery that now serves both locals and the influx of tourists in Bisbee. “I see how much I’ve improved and I see how much I’ve evolved,” Ayd remarked on her growth.

She acknowledged the inherent risks of running a bakery. However, Ayd’s “tiny but mighty” team works diligently to craft artisanal pastries that cater to the community and visitors alike. Reflecting on her nomination, Ayd said, “I have zero expectations of going forward from being a semifinalist. But it speaks volumes of what we’ve done to get here… I couldn’t have done it without them.”