Oklahoma Chefs, Restaurant Named 2026 James Beard Award Finalists

Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood recognized as one of USA TODAY's best restaurants of the year.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:55pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen illustration featuring a repeated pattern of a single seafood dish, such as a plate of oysters or shrimp cocktail, rendered in vibrant neon hues and heavy black outlines to capture the celebratory energy of Oklahoma's culinary recognition.Oklahoma City's culinary scene takes the national spotlight with prestigious James Beard and USA TODAY honors.Oklahoma City Today

Two Oklahoma City chefs and a local restaurant have been named finalists for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Awards, one of the highest honors in the culinary industry. Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood was also recently recognized as one of the best restaurants in the country by USA TODAY.

Why it matters

The James Beard Awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the food world, celebrating the most talented and innovative chefs, restaurateurs, and food media professionals. Oklahoma's strong representation among the finalists showcases the state's growing reputation as a culinary destination, attracting national attention and drawing more visitors to explore the local food scene.

The details

Chefs Evelyn Gonzalez and Trey Holt of Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood in Oklahoma City were both named finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards. The restaurant itself was also recognized as a finalist for 'Outstanding Restaurant.' Sedalia's has gained national acclaim for its fresh seafood dishes, creative cocktails, and commitment to sustainable sourcing.

  • The 2026 James Beard Award finalists were announced on March 31, 2026.
  • Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood was named one of USA TODAY's best restaurants of 2026.

The players

Evelyn Gonzalez

Chef at Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood in Oklahoma City and James Beard Award finalist.

Trey Holt

Chef at Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood in Oklahoma City and James Beard Award finalist.

Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood

An Oklahoma City restaurant that was named a finalist for the 2026 James Beard Award for 'Outstanding Restaurant' and recognized as one of USA TODAY's best restaurants of the year.

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What they’re saying

“We are honored to be recognized by the James Beard Foundation and USA TODAY. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

— Evelyn Gonzalez, Chef, Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood

“Oklahoma City's culinary scene has really come into its own, and we're proud to be part of that growth and innovation.”

— Trey Holt, Chef, Sedalia's Oyster & Seafood

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

The recognition of Oklahoma City chefs and restaurants by prestigious national organizations like the James Beard Foundation and USA TODAY underscores the state's emergence as a culinary destination, attracting more visitors and investment to the local food scene.