Two Maine Chefs Earn James Beard Award Nominations

Finalists include a Portland restaurateur and a Kennebunkport chef.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:52pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering gold and silver sequins against a dark background, conveying the glamour and prestige of the prestigious James Beard culinary awards.The glittering textures of the James Beard Awards ceremony reflect the culinary excellence of Maine's top chefs.Portland Today

Two Maine culinary figures have been named finalists for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Awards. Dana Street, the founder of Fore Street Restaurant in Portland, is a nominee for Outstanding Restaurateur, while Sarah Leah Chase, the executive chef at The White Barn Inn in Kennebunkport, is a finalist for Best Chef: Northeast.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the food world, honoring the country's top chefs, restaurateurs, and culinary professionals. Having two Maine finalists is a major point of pride for the state's thriving food scene, which has gained national attention in recent years.

The details

Street opened Fore Street in 1996, helping to pioneer Portland's reputation as a culinary destination. Chase has led the kitchen at the iconic White Barn Inn since 2018, showcasing her expertise in New England coastal cuisine.

  • The 2026 James Beard Award winners will be announced on May 6, 2026.

The players

Dana Street

The founder of Fore Street Restaurant in Portland, Maine, which has been a finalist for the Outstanding Restaurateur award.

Sarah Leah Chase

The executive chef at The White Barn Inn in Kennebunkport, Maine, who is a finalist for the Best Chef: Northeast award.

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What they’re saying

“It's an incredible honor to be recognized by the James Beard Foundation. Our team at Fore Street has worked tirelessly to create a dining experience that celebrates the incredible food and producers of Maine.”

— Dana Street, Founder, Fore Street Restaurant

“I'm humbled to be nominated alongside so many talented chefs from the Northeast region. This is a testament to the hard work of my team and the incredible local ingredients we're able to source here in Maine.”

— Sarah Leah Chase, Executive Chef, The White Barn Inn

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

Maine's culinary scene continues to gain national recognition, with two of the state's top chefs earning prestigious James Beard Award nominations that showcase the depth of talent and innovation in the local food community.