The James Beard Foundation has unveiled the semifinalists for its 2026 awards, and it’s another big year for Minnesota restaurants.
Six Minnesota restaurants are semifinalists for national awards, and five chefs at four restaurants grabbed recognition in the Best Chef Midwest category. The nominations come after Minnesota eateries grabbed 11 semifinalist spots in 2025, including a Best New Restaurant win for Bûcheron in Minneapolis’ Kingfield neighborhood.
The James Beard Awards are broadly recognized as the most prestigious annual recognition a restaurant can receive, with a mix of national awards for restaurants and bar service, as well as regional categories…