Recent Washington City Paper cover boy Mike Isabella of Graffiato is one of three D.C. nominees for “People’s Best New Chef” honors, as voted by the public and presented by Food & Wine magazine. Among other Mid-Atlantic representatives, Karen Nicolas of Equinox and Nicholas Stefanelli of Bibiana are also in the running. Arlington gets a little love, too, with David Guas of Bayou Bakery in the mix. In case you were wondering, the newness described in the award’s title is a sort of relative thing. For instance, despite opening Graffiato only last year, Isabella has been cooking here in D.C. since 2007. A press release explains that nominations are open to “talented up-and-coming innovators who have run their own kitchens for five years or fewer.” The winner will be revealed on Mar. 12 and later featured in July 2012 issue of the venerable foodie mag. Cast your vote here.