This Columbus chef was named a semifinalist for the most prestigious awards in American cooking

In October of 2021, Chapman’s Eat Market was recognized as one of the top 50 restaurants in the country by the New York Times, and now a distinction that’s even more prestigious has been reeled in by the German Village Restaurant.

B.J. Lieberman, head chef and co-owner of Chapman’s, was named a James Beard Award semifinalist in the Best Chef: Great Lakes category.

“It wasn’t even on my radar; I honestly didn’t even know I was eligible this year,” Lieberman, who found out through a text from a former coworker, said with a laugh.

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The Columbus chef, who owns the eatery with his wife, Bronwyn Haines, was grateful for the selection, but also quick to state his team at Chapman’s Eat Market deserves the recent accolade just as much as he does.

“These things really are team awards. I don’t know any restaurant where the chef does all the work,” he said.

Finalists will be announced on March 29, with the awards ceremony slated for June 5., but Lieberman said regardless of what happens, he’s proud of his team and what they’ve achieved.

“Honestly, we’re just happy for the recognition,” he said.

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