The James Beard Foundation has announced the semifinalists for its prestigious 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards, revealing a diverse array of talent from across the Northeast region. The announcement, made today, highlights several notable restaurants and chefs, including the acclaimed sushi restaurant O Ya in Boston, which has previously been overlooked by Michelin.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for June 15, 2026, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, where winners will be celebrated for their contributions to the culinary landscape.
Notable Nominees from the Northeast
The Best Chef category features a roster of impressive nominees, all of whom are making significant impacts in their communities. Among them is Luke Fetbroth from Tonino in Boston, alongside other distinguished chefs such as Amarilys Colón of La Padrona and Sāsha Colman from Comfort Kitchen, both located in the Boston area.
Additional nominees include:
– David DiStasi, Materia Ristorante, Bantam, Connecticut
– Bolivar Hilario, Community Table, New Preston, Connecticut
– Sarah Jenkins, Nina June, Rockport, Maine
Other regions are represented with talents like Derek Wagner from Nick’s on Broadway in Providence, Rhode Island, and Max Vogel of Ondis in Montpelier, Vermont.
Recognition Across Various Categories
The awards also highlight excellence in other categories. Night Moves Bread from South Portland, Maine, and Super Secret Ice Cream from Bethlehem, New Hampshire, are up for Outstanding Bakery. The Outstanding Restaurant category includes O Ya from Boston and Oberlin from Providence, Rhode Island.
Furthermore, the Outstanding Chef category recognizes David Standridge from The Shipwright’s Daughter in Mystic, Connecticut. Emerging talent is also acknowledged, with nominees like Pao Thampitak of Gaaeng Thai Supper Club in Boston and Jasmine Watson of Audette in Newport, Rhode Island.
The James Beard Awards are considered one of the highest honors in the culinary world, celebrating both established figures and rising stars. The diversity of this year’s semifinalists reflects the vibrant and evolving food scene across the Northeast.
With the awards just months away, anticipation builds for the event that showcases the dedication and creativity of the region’s culinary professionals. The finalists and winners will soon join the ranks of culinary legends recognized by the James Beard Foundation.
