Robbie Robinson Named James Beard Semifinalist Again

Delicious Texas-style barbecue served at City Limits Barbeque

News Summary

West Columbia’s City Limits Barbeque is making headlines as its pitmaster, Robbie Robinson, is recognized as a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Award in the Best Chef: Southeast category. This marks Robinson’s second consecutive year receiving this honor, highlighting the growing culinary scene in the Midlands. If successful, City Limits Barbeque would become only the second restaurant in the area to win this esteemed award, further showcasing the rich flavors and talents emerging from South Carolina.

Robbie Robinson Shines Again as James Beard Semifinalist!

West Columbia is buzzing with excitement as Robbie Robinson, the pitmaster of City Limits Barbeque, has once again received the impressive honor of being named a semifinalist in the esteemed James Beard Award’s Best Chef: Southeast category. This recognition comes for the second consecutive year, putting a bright spotlight on the thriving culinary scene in the Midlands!

What Does This Mean for City Limits Barbeque?

If Robinson takes home the award, City Limits Barbeque would join the ranks of culinary excellence in the Columbia area, becoming the second restaurant to snag a James Beard award. Lula Drake Wine Parlour made a splash last year by receiving this prestigious honor, paving the way for Robinson to potentially follow in its flavorful footsteps. The James Beard Foundation has been honoring culinary talent since 1990, and these awards are considered some of the most significant in the United States, making this acknowledgment a monumental feat for Robinson and his barbecue joint.

A Rising Star

City Limits Barbeque, known for its mouthwatering Texas-style barbecue, serves up a delightful array of delicious dishes, featuring sizzling brisket, pulled pork, and a variety of accompanying sides that would make anyone’s taste buds dance with joy. The restaurant opened its doors at 1119 Methodist Park Road in 2023 after more than seven years spent on the road in a food truck, charming barbecue lovers all along the way. Under Robinson’s expert guidance and passion for barbecue, the food joint quickly gained national recognition, attracting attention from various media outlets and food enthusiasts alike.

In late September 2024, City Limits was listed among the top 50 restaurants of the year by a well-respected publication, further solidifying its place in the hearts of food lovers everywhere. The buzz surrounding Robinson and his culinary creations has truly made the Midlands a hotspot for delicious eats!

Culinary Recognition in Columbia

West Columbia’s rise in the culinary scene is well-deserved, especially as several other semifinalists have emerged from South Carolina’s capital over recent years. Last year, Tim Gardner from Lula Drake made history by being the first honoree for Columbia, while Robinson was recognized in the same category. Alongside Robinson, chefs Tyrone and Kitwanda Cyrus of Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles also earned semifinalist status last year. The growing roster of talented chefs only adds to the rich flavor of the area.

As anticipation builds, the nominee round of the James Beard Awards is set to be announced on April 2, 2025, with the final award ceremony to follow on June 16, 2025. With so much excitement in the air, it seems like time is speeding up for Robinson, who lightheartedly shared that he bought a tuxedo last year, fully prepared to strut his stuff at the awards ceremony!

Other Candidates from South Carolina

Robinson isn’t the only one repping South Carolina in the semifinalist lineup. This year, two other notable restaurants from Charleston have also made the cut—Chubby Fish and Graft Wine Shop. The competition is fierce, but it only goes to show the immense talent found within the Palmetto State.

As the countdown to the awards ceremony continues, the entire Columbia community is rooting for Robinson and City Limits Barbeque. Will he take home the coveted award this time around? Only time will tell, but for now, the Midlands chef’s journey and passion are enough to inspire food lovers and fellow chefs alike! Here’s hoping for delicious times ahead!