Renowned Eastside Chef & Restaurateur, "Holly Smith" of "Cafe Juanita" has won "Best Chef: Northwest". And deservedly so!!!

With over 8 years under her belt, she lead the culinary charge as one of Seattle's favorite restaurants. Holly Smith of Cafe Juanita was recognized Sunday evening as one America's top chefs. Chef Smith was honored in New York City at the prestigious, 18th annual James Beard Foundation Awards, the Oscars for the culinary industry.

Her restaurant, "Cafe Juanita", all nestled so quaintly in the little suburb of Juanita is one of the best restaurants that I have ever had the privilege of going to. The food has always been superb! She takes such care in everything she does. Complimenting each course with it's own divine pairing whether it be a wine like a "Fine Fab Cab", or a deliciously wet ice cold ginger infused Martini with Foie Gras, you are sure to leave satisfied, with the feeling that you indeed had a dinner of a lifetime!

Chef Holly Smith was one of 5 finalists for the past 4 years in the regional category. She was acknowledged this year along with Scott Dolich, from Portland, Oregon's Park Kitchen and Seattle, Washington chefs: Maria Hines of Tilth, Ethan Stowell of Union and Jason Wilson of Crush. Says Smith: "I'm surprised and honored to receive a James Beard award. I really owe it all to my staff, past and present."

Smith opened Cafe Juanita in 2000, following culinary assignments with Chef Tom Douglas at the Dahlia Lounge and Chef Tamara Murphy at Brasa. Since the restaurant's opening, it has grown to become a hugely popular dining destination and it has garnered significant media recognition, including a multi-page feature in Gourmet Magazine in October 2007, Diversion Magazine for Top Dining in the U.S. 2007 by John Mariani, Seattle Magazine as one of the 10 Very Best Restaurants of 2008, the Robb Report for America's Finest Dining-57 Of Our Favorite Restaurants and named One of America's Top 50 Restaurants by Gourmet Magazine in 2006.

Cafe Juanita is located at 9702 NE 120th Place Kirkland, WA. The telephone number is (425) 823-1505. www.cafejuanita.com.

Media contact: Lissa Gruman - Gruman & Nicoll Public Relations.

Okay Holly, when is the party - let's celebrate!!!