Charleston Brings Home Two Monumental James Beard Awards

It was a big night for the Lowcountry yesterday with two bold names taking home two huge awards — congratulations to FIG and Rodney Scott.

Nominated for Outstanding Wine Program since 2015, FIG was able to capture the prestigious title last night. Owner Adam Nemirow thanked past and present chefs and managers and introduced current wine director Morgan Calcote. She said that she was proud to be carrying on FIG’s commitment to excellence and representing the small-batch wineries on the restaurant’s list. She also told the crew back home that she would “understand if the champagne cooler is little light on Tuesday.” (Permission to pop those bottles.)

First time in the category, pitmaster Rodney Scott secured Best Chef: Southeast. Scott opened Rodney Scott BBQ in Charleston last year, but has helped run Scott’s Bar-B-Que in Hemingway for years. Scott thanked everyone in the crowd. He later told Eater Restaurant Editor Hilary Dixler Canavan that he was shocked by the award.

Congratulations to the winners — and best of luck to the rest of us on grabbing a seat at FIG or Rodney Scott’s BBQ.

Here’s all the winners from last night.

• All FIG Coverage [ECHS]
• All Rodney Scott BBQ Coverage [ECHS]
• Scott’s Bar-B-Que Keeps Whole Hog Tradition Alive in Hemingway [ECHS]
• Here Is the Full List of James Beard Awards 2018 Winners [EN]