Executive Chef of the Shipwight’s Daughter named finalist in the 2024 James Beard Awards
David Standridge named a finalist for the Best Chef, Northeast category
David Standridge, executive chef of The Shipwright’s Daughter in Mystic, CT, has been named a finalist in the 2024 James Beard Awards in the category of Best Chef, Northeast. The recognition highlights Standridge’s exceptional culinary talents and his innovative approach to cuisine.
At The Shipwright’s Daughter, located within The Whaler’s Inn, Standridge creates imaginative dishes that celebrate local ingredients while incorporating innovative techniques and flavors. At the heart of his culinary philosophy is a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. He’s known for his use of invasive species, kelp, and bycatch fish in his cuisine, transforming these often-overlooked ingredients into culinary masterpieces.
“Being named a finalist for the James Beard Award is a tremendous honor and a tribute to the dedication and hard work of our entire team at The Shipwright’s Daughter,” said Standridge. “We are committed to pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity while staying true to our values of sustainability and environmental stewardship. This nomination is a testament to our shared vision and passion for excellence.”
Standridge’s dedication to sustainability also extends to his sourcing practices, where he prioritizes local, seasonal ingredients and works closely with fishermen and farmers to ensure the highest quality and freshness in his dishes. His commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by his use of locally harvested sugar kelp, a nutrient-rich seaweed that provides a distinctive umami flavor to his dishes.
Standridge’s use of bycatch fish, which are often discarded in commercial fishing operations, reflects his commitment to reducing food waste and supporting sustainable fishing practices. By incorporating these lesser-known species into his cuisine, he not only reduces waste but also celebrates the diversity of the region’s seafood offerings.
Standridge currently serves as a board member of Eating with the Ecosystem, an organization dedicated to promoting New England’s wild seafood sustainability through place-based approaches. Recognized for his efforts, The Shipwright’s Daughter was designated a “Leader” in the James Beard Smart Catch program, contributing to seafood sustainability awareness worldwide.
The James Beard Awards celebrate the best and brightest talents in the culinary industry. As a finalist, Standridge joins a talented group of chefs who have left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of the Northeast. The winners of the 2024 James Beard Awards will be announced at a gala event on June 10th in Chicago.
Share your Mystic experience with us by using #findingconnecticut on Instagram
Click here for the latest news in Mystic
Click here for upcoming events in Mystic
Click here for the latest news in New London County
Click here for the upcoming events in New London County
••••• Message center •••••••
Connecticut business owners:
Connecticut with us! Are you a local business owner in Connecticut looking to boost your visibility and reach more customers? Look no further! Our platform provides a unique opportunity to showcase your business to an engaged audience of people who love and live in Connecticut. By partnering with us, you can reach potential customers who are actively seeking things to do, places to dine, and local merchants and service providers to support. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow your business and connect with the local community!
Connecticut with us!
Get our news straight into your inbox daily
Stay connected with us on social media
Facebook • Instagram • Threads • Tiktok
Join our Reddit community
Share your Connecticut experiences with us by using #findingconnecticut on Instagram
Click here to return to Finding Connecticut’s home page
Looking for the latest news by region, topic and events
Latest news by region
Fairfield County • Hartford County • Litchfield County • Middlesex County • New Haven County • New London County• Tolland County • Windham County
Latest sports news by team
Hartford Wolf Pack • Hartford Yard Goats • Connecticut Sun • Norwich Sea Unicorns • Traveler Championship
2024 schedules
Hartford Wolf Pack • Hartford Yard Goats • Connecticut Sun • Norwich Sea Unicorns
Events my region
Fairfield County • Hartford County • Litchfield County • New Haven County • New London County • Middlesex County •Tolland County • Windham County
Events by interest
Art • Sports • Family Friendly • History • Concerts • Farmers’ Markets
Events by the month
January 2024 • February 2024 • March 2024 • April 2024 • May 2024 • June 2024 • July 2024 • August 2024 • September 2024 • October 2024 • November 2024 • December 2024
Events by venue
College Street Music Hall • Space Ballroom • Westville Music Bowl • Wall Street Theater • Hartford Stage • The Bushnell • Goodspeed Opera House • Mohegan Sun