Margarita Lorenzana-Manzke, an exceptional Filipino American pastry chef, recently made headlines by clinching the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef in 2023. This remarkable achievement further solidifies her position as a culinary magician in the world of pastries.
As the co-owner of République, an esteemed restaurant in Los Angeles, Lorenzana-Manzke has consistently showcased her mastery in the art of pastry-making. The establishment has been recognized multiple times as one of the “101 Best” by the renowned Los Angeles Times, a testament to the exceptional culinary experiences it offers.
On June 5, at the grand Lyric Opera of Chicago, the James Beard Foundation honored Lorenzana-Manzke during a captivating live ceremony. The prestigious award celebrated her relentless pursuit of excellence in crafting highly acclaimed pastries, desserts, and breads. Throughout her illustrious career, she had been nominated an impressive eight times for the coveted James Beard Award, earning the title of finalist on six occasions and semi-finalist twice.
The James Beard Award holds great significance within the culinary world, honoring individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in various aspects of the industry, including culinary arts, hospitality, and media. Moreover, the foundation places a strong emphasis on values such as gender equity, community sustainability, and the fostering of a culture of inclusivity. By bestowing this accolade upon Lorenzana-Manzke, the James Beard Foundation recognizes her contributions to these ideals.
Lorenzana-Manzke’s culinary journey encompasses collaborations with some of Los Angeles’ top restaurants, including Patina, Spago, and Mélisse. Alongside her husband, Walter Manzke, she has also played a pivotal role in the establishment of other notable dining destinations in Los Angeles, such as Sari Sari Store and Petty Cash Taqueria, as well as Bicyclette Bistro in Beverly Hills. Furthermore, she is a co-owner of the flourishing Wildflour Café + Bakery chain in the Philippines, demonstrating her influence and culinary prowess both locally and internationally.
In addition to Lorenzana-Manzke’s well-deserved recognition, the James Beard Foundation also bestowed the title of Best Chefs in the Great Lakes (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio) upon Tim Flores and Genie Kwon, the talented individuals behind the Michelin-starred Kasama restaurant in Chicago. Their exceptional skills and culinary vision have undoubtedly elevated the dining scene in the region.
The James Beard Media Award was also presented to Erwan Heussaff of the Philippines. Heussaff’s captivating Instagram posts, centered around Filipino cuisine, have captivated audiences and shed light on the rich culinary heritage of his home country. This recognition not only acknowledges Heussaff’s remarkable talent but also underscores the growing appreciation for diverse cuisines on a global scale.
In conclusion, Margarita Lorenzana-Manzke’s triumph at the 2023 James Beard Awards serves as a testament to her unparalleled skill and creativity in the realm of pastries. Her dedication to her craft, combined with her unwavering commitment to excellence, has undoubtedly cemented her status as one of the foremost pastry chefs of our time. With each delectable creation, Lorenzana-Manzke continues to push the boundaries of culinary artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.