The award is akin to the Oscars of the food world.
TAMPA, Fla. — The James Beard Awards announced the semifinalists for 2026 on Wednesday, and this year, the Tampa Bay area is making its mark in the culinary world.
The James Beard Foundation’s Restaurant and Chef Awards, established in 1990, recognize chefs, restaurants and others in 25 categories, including for different regions across the country. The award is akin to the Oscars of the food world.
Restaurants apply for the awards. Judges, who mostly remain anonymous, try the cuisine before voting. Nominees are reviewed for the food as well as for a behavioral “code of ethics,” including how employees are treated.
Born & Bread Bakehouse in Lakeland made the semifinalists list in the “Outstanding Bakery” category. Also, Bryce Bonsack made the “Best Chef” category for his work at Rocca in Tampa.
Nominees will be announced on Tuesday, March 31. Winners will be announced Monday, June 15, at a ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
‘Outstanding Bakery’ category: Born & Bread Bakehouse in Lakeland
According to its social media page, Born & Bread Bakehouse specializes in slow dough, both naturally leavened breads and “viennoiserie.”
From Boston Cream Cruffins to Honey Butter Cuban Croissants, the Lakeland-based bakery offers a variety of pastries, bread, brunch and beverage options on its menu.
‘Best Chef’ category: Bryce Bonsack — Rocca in Tampa
Rocca, a Michelin Star restaurant, offers Italian fare with Chef Bryce Bonsack’s handmade pasta-focused menu. In addition to the extensive pasta selection, the menu features select meats and fish along with upscale starters and a tableside hand-pulled mozzarella cart.
The restaurant also has an extensive Italian wine list.
“Chef Bryce honors traditional recipes learned in Italy, while infusing modern techniques honed working in cutting-edge kitchens in New York,” the website states. “The coming together of the two results in flavors that are rustic, yet refined, simple, yet beautiful and approachable by nature.”