The James Beard Foundation recently revealed its finalists for the 2025 restaurant awards, which are often called the Oscars of the food world. This list is much shorter than the original semifinalists announced in January. The winners will be announced on June 16 during a ceremony at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago, which will also be streamed live on Eater.

Interestingly, New York chefs Daniel Garwood of Acru and Danny Garcia of Time and Tide were semifinalists but did not make it to the Emerging Chef category, marking a significant moment for the city. However, New York still shines brightly in other areas. Here’s a closer look at the notable nominations:
Best New Restaurant
- Penny: This raw bar, part of the Claud team, has made a name for itself.
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service
- Details on candidates are yet to surface, but this category celebrates exceptional service in beverages across New York.
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
- Similar to the beverage category, the professionals nominated here are set to showcase their remarkable cocktail-making skills.
Best Chef: New York State
- The nominees will highlight the vibrant culinary scene in the state.
Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (New Jersey)
- Dan Richer from Razza in Jersey City is proudly representing New Jersey with his innovative pizza.
Outstanding Restaurateur
- This award highlights extraordinary contributions to the restaurant industry, focusing on leadership and excellence.
Outstanding Chef
- This category recognizes chefs who have shown exceptional culinary talent and creativity.
For Outstanding Hospitality
- Atomix, renowned for its Korean tasting menu, is nominated for its remarkable dining experience.
The James Beard Awards have a rich history, dating back to 1990. They recognize and celebrate culinary excellence across the United States. Over time, the awards have evolved to include not just chefs but also those behind the scenes, like beverage professionals and restaurateurs.
As we look at the current landscape, the awards reflect broader trends in dining, such as the rise of diverse cuisine and the growing focus on sustainability. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 87% of consumers now consider sustainability important when choosing a restaurant.
Social media plays a big part in the food conversation today. Hashtags related to the James Beard Awards often trend, giving food lovers a platform to express their thoughts and support their favorite nominees. This further enhances community engagement, making the awards not just about the winners, but about sharing cultural experiences.
For more insights and updates, check out Eater’s coverage of the James Beard Foundation and the awards.
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