TUCSON, AZ (February 9, 2026) — Claudia Vindiola, the owner of La Frida Mexican Grill & Seafood, has been named a semifinalist for Best Chef: Southwest by the James Beard Awards—a major milestone for the Tucson restaurateur who says she’s not a chef, but a passionate cook who learned in her mother’s kitchen. Vindiola was the sole Tucson nominee this time.
According to reporting by Arizona Daily Star, Claudia Vindiola spent years working a variety of jobs while raising her family as a single mother, including two decades as a hairstylist, before pursuing cooking full-time. Her son, Jesus Arana, the restaurant’s general manager, said the family was overwhelmed by the news.
The restaurant’s name and aesthetic draw inspiration from Frida Kahlo, whose image is prominently featured in the dining room. Arana told the Star that his mother aims to bring that same bold artistry to each dish, down to the details: specific plateware selected for individual menu items, careful garnishes, and occasional use of locally grown flowers…