Four notable dining establishments and culinary experts from Baltimore have made it to the semifinalist list for the highly esteemed James Beard Awards for 2026.
On Wednesday, the James Beard Foundation revealed its semifinalists across various categories, showcasing talent from all over. Baltimore is proudly represented in four categories this year.
Chef Matthew Oetting, the visionary behind Marta in the Butchers Hill neighborhood, is competing for the title of “Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.” Excitingly, Marta is set to expand its reach, with a new location, Marta al Mare, expected to debut in the summer of 2026 at the T. Rowe Price headquarters in Harbor Point.
Joining Oetting in this honorable category is Maryland’s own Darmyelesh Alemu, chef at Beteseb restaurant in Silver Spring. This Mid-Atlantic division encompasses talented chefs from Maryland, D.C., Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and New Jersey.
In another category, Doug Atwell, who operates the popular Southpaw cocktail bar located in Fells Point, is vying for the title of “Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.”
Earlier this year, Baltimore magazine recognized Southpaw as the best new bar in the city.
During a Baker’s Dozen interview in 2025 with Baltimore Fishbowl columnist Amy Langrehr, Atwell expressed pride in the opening of Southpaw. “Establishing my bar Southpaw has allowed me to create not just a business but a second home and a welcoming place for the community,” he shared.
Atwell also mentioned that his favorite spot in the city is “behind my bar on a busy night when the O’s are ahead.”
Meanwhile, Pink Flamingo, a lively bar located in Remington, is recognized as a semifinalist for “Best New Bar.” The bar was launched in April by Brendan Dorr and Eric Fooy, the creative team behind Dutch Courage, and offers a unique combination of tropical themes and tavern comforts.
In the “Outstanding Bakery” category, Café Dear Leon has earned a place among the semifinalists. Founded by Cheolsoo Lee, Sungae Lee, and Min Kim, this bakery in Canton is named in honor of Kim’s first child. They focus on celebrating the artisanal spirit of French boulangeries through classical techniques and seasonal ingredients, while also incorporating inspirations from their own cultural backgrounds.
Moreover, the team behind Café Dear Leon has expanded their offerings with a new venue, La Maison, which opened in the former JBGB’s space this past October.
The James Beard Foundation will announce the finalists for the Restaurant and Chef categories on March 31, with winners being honored at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
