Kentucky chef named 2026 James Beard Award finalist

Chef David Willocks of The Baker's Table in Newport recognized for culinary excellence.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:38pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a chef's toque hat repeated in a grid pattern, conceptually representing the recognition of a Kentucky chef's culinary excellence.A James Beard Award nomination elevates a Kentucky chef's culinary reputation to the national stage.Louisville Today

Chef David Willocks of The Baker's Table in Newport, Kentucky has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Award in the "Best Chef: Great Lakes" category. The James Beard Awards are considered the Oscars of the food world, honoring the top culinary talent across the United States.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are highly coveted within the restaurant industry, recognizing exceptional chefs who have made significant contributions to their local food scenes. Willocks' nomination highlights the growing reputation of Kentucky's culinary landscape and the state's ability to produce world-class culinary talent.

The details

Willocks has been the head chef at The Baker's Table in Newport, Kentucky since 2019. The restaurant is known for its innovative takes on classic American fare, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Under Willocks' leadership, The Baker's Table has become a destination for food enthusiasts throughout the region.

  • The 2026 James Beard Award finalists were announced on March 31, 2026.

The players

David Willocks

The head chef at The Baker's Table in Newport, Kentucky, who was named a finalist for the 2026 James Beard Award in the "Best Chef: Great Lakes" category.

The Baker's Table

A restaurant in Newport, Kentucky known for its innovative takes on classic American cuisine and focus on locally-sourced ingredients.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to be recognized by the James Beard Foundation for my work at The Baker's Table. This nomination is a testament to the incredible team we have built and the support of the local community.”

— David Willocks, Head Chef, The Baker's Table

What’s next

The winners of the 2026 James Beard Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago on May 6, 2026.

The takeaway

Chef David Willocks' James Beard Award nomination highlights Kentucky's growing reputation as a culinary destination, showcasing the state's ability to produce world-class chefs and innovative restaurants that are capturing national attention.