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Mystic Today
By the People, for the People
CT Chefs and Restaurant Named James Beard Award Finalists
Recognized for exceptional culinary talent and innovative beverage program
Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:35am
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Two Connecticut chefs and one restaurant have been named finalists for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Foundation Awards, which are considered the 'Oscars' of the food and hospitality industry. The finalists include Outstanding Chef David Standridge of The Shipwright's Daughter in Mystic, Best Chef - Northeast David DiStasi of Materia Ristorante in Bantam, and Outstanding Wine and Other Beverage Program for The Port of Call in Mystic.
Why it matters
Being named a James Beard Award finalist is a significant achievement, as it recognizes the exceptional talent, creativity, and excellence that define Connecticut's vibrant and growing culinary scene. These accolades help shine a national spotlight on the state's hospitality industry and its innovative chefs and restaurants.
The details
The Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association announced the finalists, stating that they 'represent the very best of Connecticut's vibrant and growing culinary scene.' Being a finalist means the chefs and restaurant are in the top 5 in their respective categories and will be invited to attend the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony in Chicago on June 15.
- The finalists were announced on April 1, 2026.
- The awards ceremony will take place on June 15, 2026 in Chicago.
The players
David Standridge
Executive chef and partner of The Shipwright's Daughter restaurant in Mystic, and a finalist for the Outstanding Chef award.
David DiStasi
Chef at Materia Ristorante in Bantam, and a finalist for the Best Chef - Northeast award.
The Port of Call
A restaurant in Mystic that is a finalist for the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverage Program award.
Scott Dolch
President & CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association.
What they’re saying
“These finalists represent the very best of Connecticut's vibrant and growing culinary scene. From exceptional culinary talent to innovative beverage programs, these recognitions highlight the creativity, dedication, and excellence that define our state's hospitality industry.”
— Scott Dolch, President & CEO, Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association
“Connecticut has received incredible accolades in recent years by the James Beard Awards, which included our first winner in more than 17 years when Chef David Standridge took home the medal for Best Chef Northeast in 2024.”
— Scott Dolch, President & CEO, Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association
What’s next
The chefs and restaurant will attend the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony in Chicago on June 15, 2026 to find out if they have won their respective categories.
The takeaway
The James Beard Award finalists from Connecticut showcase the state's thriving culinary scene and the exceptional talent of its chefs and restaurants. These accolades help cement Connecticut's reputation as a destination for innovative, sustainable, and world-class dining experiences.
