Since 1990, the James Beard Awards have stood as a hallmark of culinary distinction in the United States, celebrating over 35 years of exceptional talent in the food industry.
Often referred to as the “Oscars of Food,” these prestigious awards honor chefs and restaurants that excel in creating outstanding dishes, innovative food media, and improved food systems. According to the James Beard Foundation, the awards also emphasize a commitment to racial and gender equity, community engagement, sustainability, and fostering an inclusive culture.
The semifinalists, announced on Wednesday, span 14 categories, with the best chef semifinalists representing a dozen regions.
This year, the following Maryland restaurants and chefs have been recognized as semifinalists:
- Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Darmyelesh Alemu, Beteseb, Silver Spring
- Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Matthew Oetting, Marta, Baltimore
- Outstanding Bakery: Café Dear Leon, Baltimore
- Best New Bar: Pink Flamingo, Baltimore
- Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: Doug Atwell, Southpaw, Baltimore
Additionally, these Washington, D.C. venues and chefs have received nominations:
- Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic — Matthew Adler, Cucina Morini; Fernando Gonzalez, 2Fifty TX BBQ; Miguel Guerra and Tatiana Mora, Mita; Johanna Hellrigl, Ama; Cagla Onal, My Little Chamomile; Suresh Sundash, Taipori.
- Outstanding Restaurateur: Scott Drewno and Danny Lee, Fried Rice Collective (Anju, Chiko, and I Egg You).
- Outstanding Chef: Peter Pastan, 2 Amy’s.
- Outstanding Restaurant: Centrolina.
- Emerging Chef: Anthony Jones, Marcus DC.
- Best New Restaurant: Maison Bar à Vins.
- Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit.
- Outstanding Hospitality: Bresca.
- Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: Brent Kroll, Maxwell Park.
- Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: Christine Kim, Service Bar.
Receiving a James Beard Award can be a game-changer for chefs and restaurants. Any form of recognition—be it as a semifinalist, nominee, or winner—can enhance visibility, create new opportunities, and generate a positive economic impact that supports these essential businesses. In 2025, 96% of surveyed semifinalists reported that their recognition had a beneficial effect on their operations and communities, according to a recent news release from the organization.
Nominees will be revealed on March 31, with winners announced during the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
