West Virginia’s first James Beard Award-winning chef has been presented with a key to the city of Charleston. Chef Paul Smith, founder of 1010 Bridge, was recently named the best chef in the southeast by the James Beard Foundation. Smith was later recognized in his home state with a Distinguished West Virginian Award. Eyewitness News said Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin dropped by Capitol Market Thursday where Smith was providing a cooking demonstration to recognize the chef for his efforts to elevate the Mountain State’s culinary industry. After gaining experience around the country, he returned home, serving as the University of Charleston’s executive chef and a corporate chef for Buzz Food Service. Aside from 1010 Bridge, Smith has also opened the popular Pitch Sports Bar & Grill.