Miami’s dining scene is once again basking in the national spotlight, although with fewer restaurants receiving nominations than usual. On Wednesday, January 21, the James Beard Foundation unveiled its highly anticipated list of semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards, and five Miami restaurants and chefs made the cut, reaffirming the city’s growing influence on the American culinary map.
Often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world,” the James Beard Awards honor excellence across the restaurant industry, spanning Restaurant and Chef Awards, Media Awards (including books, broadcast media, and journalism), and Achievement Awards. In recent years, the foundation has expanded its scope to reflect the evolving industry, introducing Impact Awards that recognize individuals and organizations pushing for a more equitable, sustainable, and economically viable restaurant world.
From left: Jacqueline Pirolo, Michael Pirolo, and Jennifer Chaefsky of Bar Bucce in Little River.
Miami Shines in Outstanding Wine and Best New Bar Categories
Among this year’s semifinalists, Miami shows up strong in both established and emerging categories. Amara at Paraiso, the waterfront staple known for its polished Latin-inspired menu and sweeping Biscayne Bay views, earned a nod for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program, a category that highlights thoughtful, well-executed beverage offerings that elevate the dining experience. Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz, the chef and restaurateur has worked closely with Genuine Hospitality Group’s beverage director, Amanda Fraga.
In the Best New Bar category, Bar Bucce landed a coveted semifinalist spot, signaling Miami’s continued rise as a serious cocktail city. The buzzy newcomer has quickly built a reputation for its polished drinks, stylish atmosphere, and neighborhood appeal.
Intimate South Miami restaurant Recoveco has been named one of the 20 Best New Restaurants in the U.S. by Bon Appétit for its seasonal seafood and dessert.
Miami Chefs Become Best Chef: South Semifinalists
The Best Chef: South category, which includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Puerto Rico, also brought big news for Miami. Michael Beltran of Ariete, a longtime local favorite and Beard darling, once again earned recognition for his soulful, Miami-rooted cooking that blends Cuban heritage with fine-dining technique. Joining him are Maria Teresa Gallina and Nicolas Martinez of Recoveco, whose deeply personal, ingredient-driven approach has quietly made waves since opening.
This announcement marks just the first step in the 2026 awards journey. Restaurant and Chef Award nominees will be revealed on Tuesday, March 31, further narrowing the field. The final winners will be announced on Monday, June 15, during the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
For Miami, today’s semifinalist list is more than a moment of pride; it’s another reminder that the city’s chefs, bars, and dining rooms are no longer flying under the radar. They’re leading the conversation, one nomination at a time.