Chef Zach Midgett: A 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalist
Earlier this year, Casa Bovina Executive Chef Zach Midgett was named a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Midwest—a proud milestone for Chef Zach, our team, and the Lincoln dining community.
The recognition brings national attention to the work happening in our kitchen and to the ingredients, producers, and people who make Casa Bovina possible.
From Philadelphia to Lincoln
Raised in suburban Philadelphia, Zach began his culinary career on the dish station. He learned his craft through hands-on experience rather than culinary school, working in Pennsylvania kitchens including The Washington House, La Peg, and The Mainland Inn before becoming Sous Chef at Wister BYOB in 2016.
In 2017, Zach moved to California, where he continued his career at The French Laundry. He later brought that experience to Lincoln as Executive Chef at Casa Bovina.
Today, his work includes developing seasonal menus, building relationships with producers, and helping the next generation of cooks grow in their craft.
Northern Italian Inspiration, Nebraska Ingredients
At Casa Bovina, Chef Zach’s menus bring Northern Italian traditions to a Nebraska table. Certified Piedmontese beef anchors our steak program, alongside handmade pasta and seasonal dishes shaped by ingredients from our estate garden, local farms, and select producers.
Both our à la carte and tasting menus reflect that approach: respect the ingredients, prepare them thoughtfully, and give guests something memorable.
As chef Zach put it:
“Great ingredients speak for themselves. Our job is to respect them, elevate them, and create an experience that feels both comforting and unforgettable.”
-executive chef Zach Midgett
A Shared Accomplishment
While the recognition carries Chef Zach’s name, he celebrates it as a team. Every dinner depends on the people preparing ingredients, cooking each course, selecting wines, and welcoming guests.
It also depends on the farmers and producers whose work begins long before an ingredient reaches our kitchen, and on the guests who choose to spend their evenings with us.
We’re grateful to everyone who has helped shape Casa Bovina.
Experience the Kitchen’s Work
Whether you join us for a favorite pasta, a Certified Piedmontese steak, or the full progression of a tasting menu, you’ll experience the care behind Chef Zach’s cooking.
We’re proud to celebrate this milestone—and look forward to welcoming you to the table.
Thank you, Lincoln!
This recognition celebrates our team, our producers, and the guests who make Casa Bovina possible.
