The James Beard Foundation has unveiled its list of 2025 semifinalists—and five Nashville chefs, bars, restaurants and hospitality professionals have officially made the cut. Award nominations are set to be announced on Wednesday, April 2, and winners will be revealed at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards, regarded among the country’s most prestigious distinctions for talent in the culinary and food media industries. The awards also celebrate each honoree’s dedication to equity, sustainability and cultivating a thriving community for all.

To celebrate this milestone, the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards have broadened to encompass three new beverage-centered categories, including Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.

The 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists are listed below.

Best Chef Southeast

Julio Hernandez, Maíz de la Vida

Jake Howell, Peninsula

Dung "Junior" Vo, Noko

Outstanding Restaurateur

Benjamin Goldberg, Max Goldberg and Josh Habiger, Strategic Hospitality (Bastion, Locust, Kisser and others)

Best New Restaurant

Bad Idea

See also: 10 Best Bars In Nashville