Two Maine Chefs Up for Food & Wine's People's Best New Chef

Maine may have been snubbed in Food & Wine's Best New Chefs decision making, but two of Portland's local heroes are in the running for People's Best New Chef. Chris Gould of Central Provisions and Damian Sansonetti of Piccolo are nominated in the New England region. To qualify, chefs must have been in charge of their own kitchens for five years or less.

Gould, whose restaurant is also a finalist for a prestigious James Beard Award, is praised for "his ever-evolving list of small plates," including the "quintessential dish" of hay-smoked carrots with goat cheese and pistachio vinaigrette. Sansonetti's "sublime, rustic-modern Italian dishes" — particularly the Cavatelli with lamb neck ragù, eggplant, orange, and pecorino — win him kudos.

This is, in fact, a popularity contest, so get over to the official site and choose a candidate now. Voting ends Wednesday, April 8 at 4 p.m.