Washington’s Top Restaurants & Chefs Named 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists
The 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists have been announced, celebrating Washington’s vibrant culinary scene. Many local chefs and restaurants have received nominations, marking a significant honor in the culinary world.
Recognized Chefs and Restaurants
This year’s nominations highlight talented individuals and establishments in Washington, particularly in Seattle. Here’s a breakdown of the notable semifinalists:
Outstanding Chef
- Aaron Verzosa – Archipelago, Seattle, WA
Emerging Chef
- Ahmed Suliman – Cafe Suliman, Seattle, WA
Best New Restaurant
- Little Beast Ballard, Seattle, WA
- The Wayland Mill, Seattle, WA
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
- Christina Wood – Temple Pastries, Seattle, WA
Outstanding Bar
- The Elbow Room, Vancouver, WA
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
- Anu Apte – Rob Roy, Seattle, WA
Best Chef: Northwest & Pacific (AK, HI, OR, WA)
- Janet Becerra – Pancita, Seattle, WA
- Johnny Courtney – Atoma, Seattle, WA
- Logan Cox – Homer, Seattle, WA
- Jordan Koplowitz – Starla’s, Bellingham, WA
- Melissa Miranda – Musang, Seattle, WA
- Thai Nguyen and Trinh Nguyen – Ramie, Seattle, WA
- Aaron Tekulve – Surrell, Seattle, WA
Upcoming Announcements and Ceremony
The final list of nominees will emerge on March 31. The prestigious James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony will occur in Chicago at the Lyric Opera on June 15.
These nominations not only represent individual excellence but also shine a light on Washington’s extraordinary culinary landscape, making this a proud moment for the local food community.
