
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards. The esteemed Restaurant Chef and Restaurant Awards celebrates excellence in dining and is one of the most prestigious recognitions food and beverage industry workers can receive. Ahead of the official nominations, James Beard Awards have revealed its list of semifinalists across 25 categories in the culinary industry.
In honor of its 35th anniversary, the organization has introduced three new awards including Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service, and Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service. Here are the 2025 Houston James Beard Award Semifinalists.
Outstanding Restauranteur
- Ita Ben Eli and Itamar Levy of Sof Hospitality Group (Badolina Bakery, Doris Metropolitan, and Hamsa)
- Martin Stayer and Sara Stayer (Nobie’s, Nonno’s, and Toasted Coconut)
Emerging Chef
- Suu Khin (Burmalicious)
Best New Restaurant
Outstanding Bakery
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
- March
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service
- Andres Blanco (Le Jardinier)
Best Chef: Texas
- Ope Amosu (ChopnBlok)
- Thomas Bille (Belly of the Beast)
- Emmanuel Chavez (Tatemó)
- Evelyn Garcia (Jun)
- Beatriz Martines (Xalisko)
- David Skinner (Ishtia)
“The mission of the James Beard Awards is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive”, the organization writes on its site.
Last year’s James Beard Award-winners did not include any Houston chefs, restaurants, or restauranteurs. So here’s to hoping we have better luck this year.
James Beard Awards will announce its official nominees on Wednesday, April 2nd. On Monday, June 16, the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards will announce its official winners at a ceremony held at Lyric Opera of Chicago.