With 13 nominations, including restaurants, chefs, and beverage professionals, Houston is shining again on the list of semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards. The awards are considered to be among the nation's most prestigious honors that recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food industries. The semifinalists were announced on January 22, and the nominees will be presented on April 2. The winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16, 2025, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
2025 marks an incredible milestone: the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards. This year's ceremony will commemorate the transformative role the Awards have played in recognizing culinary excellence and shaping the evolution of the American food culture we all enjoy.
On a more personal level for each participant, the James Beard Awards continue to impact the careers and lives of many culinary professionals. Recognition at any stage of the Awards process can lead to significant visibility and, in some cases, short and long-term positive economic impact for businesses. In the past two years, according to the James Beard Foundation, 66% of semifinalists reported a significant increase in covers after the announcement. This is especially crucial at a time when independent restaurants continue to operate on razor-thin margins.
Let's support and cheer for our distinctive local talents who enrich already notable Houston's culinary landscape!
Burmalicious (courtesy)
Regional Category
Best Chef: Texas
- Ope Amosu - ChòpnBlọk
- Thomas Bille - Belly of the Beast (Spring)
- Emmanuel Chavez - Tatemó
- Evelyn Garcia and Henry Lu - Jūn
- Beatriz Martines - Xalisko (The Woodlands)
- David Skinner - Ishtia (Kemah)
National Categories
Outstanding Restaurateur
- Itai Ben Eli and Itamar Levy - Sof Hospitality Group: Hamsa, Badolina Bakery, Doris Metropolitan, and Októ
- Sara Stayer and Martin Stayer - Nobie's, Toasted Coconut, and Nonno's
Emerging Chef: Suu Khin - Burmalicious
Best New Restaurant - Ema
Outstanding Bakery - Koffeteria
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program - MARCH
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service (new category in 2025): Andres Blanco - Le Jardinier
Explore more restaurants & bars in Houston.
Photos: Courtesy of MARCH and Burmalicious