It’s that time of year again. The James Beard Awards have announced their 2026 class of semifinalists.
Unofficially dubbed “The Oscars of Food,” the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards recognize the best of the best around the country. The restaurant awards highlight individual eateries that are pushing boundaries and serving customers at the highest level. Chef awards are divided by region, with Arizona lumped in with New Mexico, Nevada and Oklahoma in the Southwest.
Last year, chef Yotaka “Sunny” Martin of downtown Phoenix restaurant Lom Wong took home the medal for her regional Thai cuisine. In 2024, chef Rene Andrade took the title for his Sonoran-style live fire fare at Bacanora. Can Arizona make it three in a row? The 2026 nominees will be announced on March 31 and the winners will take home their medals on June 15.
2026 James Beard semifinalists in Arizona
Outstanding Chef – Charleen Badman, FnB, Scottsdale…