The 2012 James Beard Semifinalists have been announced (click here for the full list), about a month before the finalists will be unveiled, on March 19. By the numbers, Chicago, D.C., Philadelphia, and San Francisco have the most nominees. After the jump, South Florida's nominees in all categories.

Best New Restaurant
NYC: 3
Chicago, DC, Philly: 2

Outstanding Chef
Chicago: 3
L.A., NYC: 2

Outstanding Restaurant
San Francisco, NYC: 2

Rising Star Chef of the Year
NYC: 5
Chicago: 3

Outstanding Wine & Spirits Professionals
Wine: 10 nominees
Beer: 6 nominees
Spirits: 4 nominees

After the jump, South Florida's semifinalist nominees.

Best New Restaurant
Yardbird Southern Table and Bar, Miami Beach

Outstanding Pastry Chef
Hedy Goldsmith, Michael's Genuine Food and Drink, Miami

Outstanding Wine & Spirits Professionals
Virginia Philip, Virginia Philip Wine Shop & Academy, West Palm Beach

Rising Star Chef of the Year
Jarrod Verbiak, DP Bistro Moderne at the JW Marriott Marquis, Miami

Best Chef: South
Clay Conley, Buccan, Palm Beach
Paula DaSilva, 1500 Degrees at Eden Roc, Miami Beach
Jeff McInnis, Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, Miami Beach
Sergio Navarro, Pubbelly, Miami Beach

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