Minneapolis Chef Shigeyuki Furukawa Nominated for James Beard Award

Kado No Mise restaurant is Minnesota's only 2026 finalist for Best Chef: Midwest

Apr. 2, 2026 at 7:38pm

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An extreme close-up photograph showcasing the glistening textures and vibrant colors of delicate sashimi arranged on a glossy black plate, conveying the refined elegance of traditional Japanese culinary presentation.The meticulous plating and premium ingredients at Kado No Mise reflect the artistry and precision of Chef Shigeyuki Furukawa's acclaimed Japanese cuisine.Minneapolis Today

Chef Shigeyuki Furukawa, who opened the traditional Japanese restaurant Kado No Mise in Minneapolis in 2017, has been nominated for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Midwest. This is Furukawa's second consecutive year as a finalist for the prestigious culinary honor.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the food world, recognizing the top culinary talent across the United States. Furukawa's nomination highlights the growing reputation of Minnesota's dining scene and the increasing popularity of authentic Japanese cuisine outside of major coastal cities.

The details

Furukawa opened Kado No Mise in 2017 with the goal of bringing traditional Japanese cooking techniques and ingredients to the Midwest. The restaurant quickly gained a loyal following for its omakase-style tasting menus and Furukawa's meticulous attention to detail. Kado No Mise is the only restaurant in Minnesota to be named a finalist for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Midwest.

  • Kado No Mise opened in 2017 in Minneapolis.
  • Furukawa was named a James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef: Midwest in 2025 and 2026.

The players

Shigeyuki Furukawa

The chef and owner of Kado No Mise, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Minneapolis that is the only Minnesota establishment to be named a finalist for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Midwest.

Kado No Mise

A Minneapolis restaurant that specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine and was founded by Chef Shigeyuki Furukawa in 2017.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to be recognized again by the James Beard Foundation. My goal has always been to share the beauty and precision of Japanese cooking with diners in the Midwest.”

— Shigeyuki Furukawa, Chef and Owner, Kado No Mise

What’s next

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

The takeaway

Chef Shigeyuki Furukawa's second consecutive James Beard nomination for his Minneapolis restaurant Kado No Mise demonstrates the growing national recognition of Minnesota's dining scene and the rising popularity of authentic Japanese cuisine outside of traditional culinary hubs.