The annual James Beard Awards recognize the best and the brightest of the nation’s dining scene. These prestigious accolades honor not only chefs and restaurants that demonstrate excellence in quality, but those who contribute positively to their communities.

As the official home of the James Beard Awards, Chicago also has a fair share of award contenders this year — popular spots like Galit, Kasama, Daisies, and Mirra are nominated for top awards.

Check out the full list of Chicago nominees and semi-finalists below. The winners will be announced at the 36th annual James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 15, 2026 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

James Beard Award 2026 Chicago semi-finalists

The bar at Galit
The bar at Galit; photo by Sandy Noto

Outstanding Restaurateur

A restaurateur who uses their establishment(s) as a vehicle for building community, demonstrates creativity in entrepreneurship, and integrity in restaurant operations.

Outstanding Chef

A chef who sets high culinary standards and has served as a positive example for other food professionals.

Outstanding Restaurant

A restaurant that demonstrates consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations.

Emerging Chef

A chef who displays exceptional talent, character, and leadership ability, and who is likely to make a significant impact in years to come.

Best New Restaurant

A restaurant that already demonstrates excellence in cuisine, seems likely to make a significant impact in years to come, and demonstrates consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations.

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker

A pastry chef or baker who makes desserts, pastries, or breads and demonstrated exceptional skills.

Outstanding Hospitality

A restaurant, bar, or other food and drinking establishment that fosters a sense of hospitality among its customers and staff that serves as a beacon for the community and demonstrates consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations.

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

A restaurant that demonstrates exceptional care and skill in the pairing of wine and other beverages with food.

Outstanding Bar

A bar that demonstrates consistent excellence in curating a selection or in the preparation of drinks, along with outstanding atmosphere, hospitality, and operations.

Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service

A service professional who demonstrates creativity and consistency in excellence, innovation, and hospitality; is making efforts to create a sustainable work culture; and has served as an exceptional example or mentor for other beverage professionals.

Best Chef: Great Lakes

Chefs who set high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities and who are making efforts to help create a sustainable work culture in their respective regions.

Check out all the Chicago James Beard Award winners and catch the this year’s ceremony on June 15, 2026!