Nine LA Restaurants and Chefs Earn 2026 James Beard Nominations

The prestigious culinary awards recognize excellence in food, media, and sustainability.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:08pm

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Nine restaurants and chefs from Los Angeles County were among the 2026 James Beard Foundation Award nominees announced this week. The 'Oscars of food' honor eateries and culinary professionals who create exceptional dishes, media content, and promote better food systems. Winners will be revealed at a ceremony in Chicago on June 15.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the highest honor in the American food and beverage industry. Being nominated is a major achievement that can boost a restaurant or chef's profile and draw more customers. The awards also recognize a commitment to equity, community, and sustainability - values that resonate with many diners.

The details

The nominees from LA County include five chefs up for national awards, two restaurants competing for Best New Restaurant, and one eatery nominated for Outstanding Hospitality and Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program. Last year's Best Chef in California, Jon Yao of Kato, is also nominated again for the restaurant's beverage program. Additionally, three LA County winners were previously announced in the Humanitarian of the Year, Impact Award, and Lifetime Achievement categories.

  • The James Beard Foundation announced the 2026 nominees on March 31, 2026.
  • The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony in Chicago on June 15, 2026.

The players

Gilberto Cetina

Chef at Holbox restaurant in Historic South Central, Los Angeles.

Niki Nakayama

Chef at n/naka restaurant in Palms, Los Angeles.

Fátima Juárez

Chef at Mexican restaurant Komal in South Central, Los Angeles, and one of five nationwide nominees for the Emerging Chef award.

Ki

A Korean restaurant in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, nominated for Best New Restaurant.

Providence

A Hollywood restaurant with three Michelin stars and a previous James Beard Award, nominated this year for Outstanding Hospitality.

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What’s next

The winners of the 2026 James Beard Foundation Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago on June 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The James Beard nominations highlight Los Angeles' thriving and diverse culinary scene, with recognition for restaurants and chefs pushing the boundaries of flavor, sustainability, and equity in the industry.