James Beard Foundation Announces 2026 Semifinalists

The James Beard Foundation announced its 2026 semifinalists on January 21, recognizing top culinary professionals across the United States in categories spanning restaurants, bakeries, bars and individual achievements. The list highlights emerging talents and established figures from regions including the Midwest, Mountain states, New England and the Southeast, with finalists to be revealed on March 31 and winners honored on June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The awards, often called the Oscars of the food industry, celebrate excellence in American cuisine since 1990. Semifinalists were selected from thousands of submissions, focusing on innovation, community impact and culinary skill. This year's cohort includes diverse establishments, from Japanese izakayas in Kansas City to ramen houses in Denver and farm-to-table spots in New England.

In the Kansas City metro area, six semifinalists earned recognition. Anjin, a Japanese izakaya-style restaurant in the Crossroads district at 1708 Oak Street, is up for Best New Restaurant. Owned by Nick and Leslie Goellner, who also run The Antler Room, it opened last year. At The Town Company in Hotel Kansas City, executive chef Johnny...