Nancy Silverton to receive James Beard lifetime achievement award; 9 local finalists named

The prestigious dining awards recognize L.A. chefs, restaurants, and organizations championing immigrant rights and representation.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:18pm

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An extreme close-up of shimmering gold sequins reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the prestigious James Beard Awards honoring the culinary industry.The glittering glamour of the James Beard Awards shines a light on L.A.'s vibrant culinary scene.Los Angeles Today

The James Beard Foundation Awards, some of the country's most prestigious accolades in the dining and beverage industries, have announced their 2026 finalists, with nine of them in the Los Angeles area. This year's awards will also recognize two L.A.-based aid organizations and the recipient of the lifetime achievement award, L.A. chef, restaurateur and cookbook author Nancy Silverton.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the food world, honoring the best chefs, restaurants, and industry professionals across the United States. Having multiple L.A. finalists, as well as the lifetime achievement award going to a local culinary icon, highlights the city's vibrant and diverse dining scene and the impact L.A. chefs and organizations are making nationally.

The details

The nine L.A. finalists span the city's cuisines and talent, from fine-dining tasting menus to chefs based in a Historic South-Central food hall. Nominees include Gilberto Cetina of Holbox, Niki Nakayama of n/naka, Fátima Juárez of Komal, Dave Beran of Seline, and Kwang Uh of Baroo. The awards will also recognize two L.A. organizations, the Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights and No Us Without You, for their work championing immigrant rights and representation.

  • The winners will be announced and awarded at a June 15 ceremony held at Chicago's Lyric Opera.
  • In February, the foundation named Inglewood's multigenerational Serving Spoon restaurant an American classic.

The players

Nancy Silverton

A renowned L.A. chef, restaurateur and cookbook author who is receiving the James Beard Foundation's lifetime achievement award.

Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights

An L.A.-based organization that champions immigrant rights and representation, and is being honored with an Impact Award.

No Us Without You

An L.A. organization that provides aid distribution and supports immigrant communities, and is being recognized with the humanitarian of the year award.

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What they’re saying

“I'm very grateful. At the same time, it's this question like, 'Am I really worth it?' But I'm very thankful.”

— Kwang Uh, Chef, Baroo

“I think it's always been a dream to be seen by our hospitality peers. I think that's been the same for most coffee professionals. We kind of exist in our little specialty niche.”

— Jack Benchakul, Owner, Endorffeine coffee shop

What’s next

The winners will be announced and awarded at a June 15 ceremony held at Chicago's Lyric Opera.

The takeaway

The James Beard Awards' recognition of L.A.'s diverse culinary talents and community-focused organizations underscores the city's status as a dining destination and hub for culinary innovation and social impact.