WEC pastry chef named semifinalist in James Beard Awards


Yohann Le Bescond, executive pastry chef at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala. [Photo by Meagan Gumpert, MAVEN Photo + Film]

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Posted January 27, 2025 | Staff report

Yohann Le Bescond, executive pastry chef at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, has been named one of 20 semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards in the category of Outstanding Pastry Chef/Baker.

The news release noted that the awards recognize eateries and chefs exhibiting “exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive,” according to the James Beard Foundation.

Le Bescond and his team provide French desserts and other creations at WEC’s Emma’s Patisserie and restaurants on the property.

“It’s an incredible honor to be selected as a semifinalist by the James Beard Foundation,” he said in the release.

The award winners will be announced June 16.

To learn more, go to jamesbeard.org and wec.net

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