Skogen chef receives James Beard Award nod

Wolfgang Puck, Bobby Flay, Anthony Bourdain, Alton Brown, Julia Child, Ina Garten and Jaques Pépin are just a few of the recognizable names of chefs who have been previously awarded a James Beard award, for which Chef Joseph Raney of Skogen Kitchen has just been named a semifinalist.
Raney was announced as a semifinalist for the prestigious award last Wednesday, Jan. 25. His nomination was in the Best Chef category for the midwest region. Raney says he is “blown away” by how much attention Skogen has received.
The nomination came as a surprise, said Raney. When Raney first introduced his concept for Skogen, many people were doubtful that such a restaurant could make it in Custer, said Raney in a previous interview. This nomination comes as proof that not only can it exist, but it can do very well in Custer—despite  any naysayers. His wife Eliza says he is his own biggest critic.
“If the hostess isn’t smiling, if the servers aren’t providing excellent service, if my dishwashers don’t clean the dishes properly, if the cooks don’t execute my dishes well, if my wife isn’t supporting me, no one knows who I am—a James Beard award isn’t even possible. This is an incredible moment for me personally, however, it is an incredible testament to their hard work, and their belief in the business I love,” said Raney, “I’m super proud of the team.”
Raney says it was never his goal to win, but that he’s “along for the ride”.
“I left California seven years ago. When I left, I had some feelings that I was letting go of my dreams and that everything I wanted to accomplish would be much more of a distant reach. The reality, however, is that Custer is where all my hopes and dreams would happen. I love South Dakota immensely, and I love this town even more. I owe this town my best effort.”
For those who may be eager or curious to try Skogen now, Raney says its best to leave any expectations at the door.
“We strive to be different,” says Raney. One thing you can expect, however, is a “fun, warm place to be” and “people who care about what they’re doing,” says Raney.
Finalist nominees will be announced March 29, and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony June 5 at the Lyric Opera in Chicago.
Skogen Kitchen will reopen after a short break on Thursday Feb. 9. Their usual hours are from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required, although they are sometimes able to accommodate walk-ins.