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Several LA chefs advance to the James Beard Award 2026 finals
The coveted James Beard Foundation medal.
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Courtesy James Beard Foundation
)
The finalists for the James Beard Awards were announced this morning. Four Los Angeles chefs advanced to this next stage, while several restaurants also made it through, an impressive achievement given the stellar competition.
The James Beard awards are often called the Oscars of the food world, and advancing to this stage will mean more attention and months of booked-up reservations.
For restaurant goers, it's also a sign of the direction that American food culture is heading.
Who are the LA finalists?
They are:
Outstanding chef: Gilberto Cetina of Holbox and Niki Nakayama of n/naka
Emerging chef: Fátima Juárez of Komal
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Best chef in California: Dave Beran of Seline
Best new restaurant: Ki
Outstanding hospitality: Providence
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Kato
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: Jack Benchakul, endorffeine coffee bar
The ultimate winners will be announced in June.
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