If you’ve been waiting for a sign to lock in your next reservation, this is it. Following the semifinalists announced back in January, the James Beard Foundation has officially revealed the full list of 2026 Restaurant and Chef Award nominees, spotlighting the standout talent shaping dining across the country right now.
Widely regarded as one of the highest honors in the food world, the James Beard Awards have spent more than three decades recognizing the chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality pros defining American cuisine. Beyond the accolades, the foundation continues to uplift the industry through events, advocacy, and initiatives that celebrate culinary innovation nationwide.
In other words: if a restaurant or chef made this year’s final nominee list, it’s safe to assume it’s about to get very, very booked.
2026 James Beard Awards NYC Restaurant & Chef Nominees
Outstanding Restaurant
- The Four Horsemen, Brooklyn, NY
Emerging Chef
- Rasheeda Purdie, Ramen by Rā
Best New Restaurant
- Lei, Manhattan, NY
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
- Chambers, Manhattan, NY
Best New Bar
- Clemente Bar, Manhattan, NY
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
- Ivy Mix, Whoopsie Daisy, Brooklyn, NY
Best Chef: New York State
- Fidel Caballero, Corima, Manhattan, NY
- Giovanni Cervantes, Carnitas Ramirez, Manhattan, NY
- Hooni Kim, Meju, Queens, NY
- Ayesha Nurdjaja, Shukette, Manhattan, NY
- Joshua Pinsky, Claud, Manhattan, NY
Stay tuned–winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, 2026 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
You can see the full list of 2026 nominees on the James Beard website.