‘Oscars of the industry.’ KC-area bakery, bar both nominated for James Beard Awards

Nominees for the 2023 James Beard Awards were announced Wednesday morning with two Kansas City area operations making the cut.

▪ Yoli Tortilleria was nominated for outstanding bakery. It also was a semifinalist in 2022.

▪ Drastic Measures in Shawnee was nominated for outstanding bar.

The awards are considered among the most prestigious for restaurants — the so-called Oscars of the industry — and recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equality, community, sustainability and a “culture where all can thrive.”

Yoli Tortilleria is owned by Mark and Marissa Gencarelli.

The nomination “feels a little unreal. It honestly feels like the little Mexican engine that could,” she said. “We are pretty small. Small but mighty. It was not expected, a business like us, to be part of such a prestigious recognition. So we are very humble.”

Marissa is a native of Mexico, and her husband grew up in Kansas City. In 2017, they decided to make and sell fresh tortillas, opening a manufacturing plant. In July 2020, they opened a storefront at 1668 Jefferson St., Suite 100, in the city’s West Side. Items include corn tortillas (white, yellow, red or blue), flour tortillas, salsas, tamales, burritos and branded T-shirts.

Yoli (pronounced yo-lee) comes from the Aztec word meaning “to live” and embraces the attitude “to live adventurously as seekers of quality, hand-crafted foods,” they said.

Officials with Drastic Measures could not be reached for comment Wednesday morning.

The semifinalists were announced in January. The winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 5 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The other area semifinalists

▪ Outstanding chef: Johnny Leach of The Town Co.

▪ Outstanding hospitality: The Restaurant at 1900, Mission Woods

Best chef Midwest:

▪ Pam Liberda, Waldo Thai

▪ Michael Corvino, Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room

▪ Nick Goellner, The Antler Room

Read the full list at jamesbeard.org.

This story was originally published March 29, 2023 at 12:28 PM.