James Beard Awards® 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists

Outstanding Restaurateur - Scott Drewno and Danny Lee, The Fried Rice Collective (Anju, Chiko, and I Egg You), Washington, D.C.

Considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, the James Beard Awards® recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive. The Restaurant and Chef Awards—established in 1990, with the first Awards given in 1991—celebrate excellence across all types of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual establishments, and are one of several recognition programs of the Awards.

The 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists are recognized across 25 categories. In celebration of the Awards’ pivotal anniversary, as well as in recognition of the ever-evolving independent restaurant landscape, the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards have expanded with a focus on beverages, introducing three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service

Nominees will be announced on Wednesday, April 2, and winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.