Birmingham's La Fête Earns James Beard Nomination

Chef Kristen Hall's French-inspired bistro recognized for exceptional food and hospitality

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:07pm

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Kristen Hall, the founder of Birmingham's La Fête restaurant, has been nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef in the South. La Fête, which opened in 2022, has already earned acclaim for its authentic French cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere, including a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand distinction.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the culinary world, so Kristen Hall's nomination is a major accomplishment that shines a spotlight on Birmingham's thriving food scene. La Fête's recognition also highlights the restaurant's commitment to hospitality and creating a neighborhood gathering place through its French-inspired menu and community-focused initiatives.

The details

In addition to the James Beard nomination, La Fête has received other notable accolades, such as the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand award, which honors restaurants that serve 'exceptionally good food at great value.' The restaurant, which offers a wide selection of delicious pastries in addition to its French-inspired dinner menu, was founded by Kristen Hall, who also owns the small pastry bakery Bandit Pâtisserie.

  • La Fête opened in 2022.
  • Kristen Hall was nominated for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef in the South.

The players

Kristen Hall

The founder of La Fête restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama, who was nominated for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef in the South. She also owns the small pastry bakery Bandit Pâtisserie.

La Fête

A French-inspired bistro in Birmingham that has received acclaim for its authentic cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere, including a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand distinction.

Pardis Stitt

The owner of the Stitt Restaurant Group in Birmingham, which has also received recognition from the James Beard Foundation and Michelin Guide.

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What they’re saying

“My vision for La Fête was a neighborhood bistro inspired by French cuisine and techniques. I really wanted La Fête to have those warm, cozy, 'when you're here, you're family' vibes. The overall goal is that I wanted La Fête to be a restaurant of regulars. I think it's become that.”

— Kristen Hall, Owner, La Fête

“Obviously, Pardis Stitt and the Stitt Restaurant Group. It's been a really wonderful thing for me as a chef and owner to see hospitality and service in the forefront, both with the James Beard nomination for service and Pardis's award at the Michelin Guide for Service as well. It makes me very happy to see that.”

— Kristen Hall, Owner, La Fête

What’s next

The James Beard Award winners will be announced in May 2026.

The takeaway

La Fête's James Beard nomination is a testament to Birmingham's thriving culinary scene and the restaurant's commitment to authentic French cuisine, exceptional hospitality, and creating a welcoming neighborhood gathering place.