Renowned chef Buu "Billy" Ngo, co-founder of the acclaimed restaurant Kru in Sacramento, has taken a significant step towards winning the esteemed James Beard Foundation award for best chef in California. The foundation revealed its finalists for the highly anticipated 2024 Restaurant and Chef Awards on Wednesday, with Ngo earning a coveted spot among the top five contenders in his category.

In addition to Ngo, the other accomplished California chefs vying for the prestigious title include Geoff Davis of Burdell in Oakland, Rogelio Garcia of Auro in Calistoga, Lord Maynard Llera of Kuya Lord in Los Angeles, and Tara Monsod of Animae in San Diego. Ngo, who had previously been named a semifinalist back in January, is the sole representative from Sacramento among the finalists.

Buu Ngo's culinary journey is a remarkable one. Born in a refugee camp in Hong Kong, Ngo relocated to Sacramento at a tender age of eight months. He embarked on his culinary career after graduating from the esteemed California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. Following his education, Ngo honed his skills in various sushi restaurants in Sacramento before embarking on his own venture.

In 2005, Ngo collaborated with partners to establish Kru, an innovative Japanese cuisine restaurant and bar that quickly gained recognition for its extraordinary culinary offerings. Over the years, Ngo's culinary expertise expanded with the founding of Fish Face Poke Bar, Healthy Hounds Kitchen, and Kodaiko Ramen and Bar, showcasing his versatility and passion for creating diverse dining experiences.

The James Beard Awards, often referred to as the "Oscars of the food industry," acknowledge and celebrate excellence in the culinary world. Considered a pinnacle achievement for chefs, this annual event recognizes the outstanding talent and creativity demonstrated throughout the industry.

The winners of the 2024 James Beard Foundation Awards will be announced during the prestigious James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony, to be held on June 10 in Chicago. The event will be livestreamed on the Eater platform, allowing food enthusiasts and admirers of Ngo's work worldwide to witness this momentous occasion.

As Buu "Billy" Ngo gears up for the upcoming awards ceremony, Sacramento eagerly awaits the outcome, rooting for their local culinary maestro to bring home the esteemed James Beard Foundation Award for best chef in California.