BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - Four Birmingham chefs and one Birmingham restaurant were announced as semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards, which are described as one of the prestigious honors of the food and beverage world.
The James Beard Awards are given through the James Beard Foundation. Named after James Andrew Beard, who was reportedly anointed the “Dean of American cookery,” the James Beard Foundation says they aim to be a “destination for excellence across the independent restaurant industry, driving the country towards a better food system.”
“The James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One represent the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the US. Since their inception in 1990, the Restaurant and Chef Awards have made icons out of the nation’s top restaurant and bar professionals. Today, these semifinalists join a constellation of James Beard Award–recognized leaders who collectively embody the breadth of American culinary excellence,” reads the James Beard Awards page on the Foundation’s website.
Birmingham’s semifinalists include:
- Rob McDaniel of Bayonet, Nominated for Outstanding Chef
- Kristen Hall of La Fête, Nominated for Best Chef (South)
- Geri-Martha O’Hara and Ryan O’Hara of Pizza Grace, Nominated for Best Chef (South)
- Eric Bennett of Continental Drift, Nominated for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
- Bottega, Nominated for Outstanding Hospitality
Restaurant and chef finalists will be announced on March 31 and the winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 15 at the Lyric Opera in Chicago.
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Dan Williams, the president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) shared his excitement on behalf of the GBCVB:
“Birmingham’s culinary prowess is undeniable. Coming right on the heels of our Michelin recognition, this James Beard Award news further showcases the talent and creativity defining our food scene. National attention like this doesn’t just elevate our chefs. It drives real economic impact by attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and strengthening the Greater Birmingham region’s position as a premier dining destination.”
— Dan Williams, the president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB)
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