12 Houston Restaurants and Chefs Named 2026 James Beard Semifinalists

Houston’s culinary scene continues to shine on the national stage, as 12 of the region’s restaurants and chefs have secured semifinalist nominations for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Awards.

From neighborhood favorites to bold new concepts pushing boundaries, this year’s semifinalists reflect what makes Houston’s food scene stand out: diversity, innovation and flavors rooted in cultures from around the world.

Here’s who made the list:

National Categories:

Outstanding Restaurateur: Hugo Ortega and Tracy Vaught, H-Town Restaurant Group
Outstanding Chef: Manabu Horiuchi, Katami
Emerging Chef: Max Lappé and Jacques Varon, Baso
Emerging Chef: Adrian Torres, Maximo
Best New Restaurant: Agnes and Sherman
Best New Bar: Lee’s
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: June Rodil, March
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: Kristine Nguyen, Bludorn

Best Chef: Texas Nominees:

Ope Amosu, ChòpnBlọk
Kent Domas and Seth Siegel-Gardner, Milton’s
Evelyn Garcia and Henry Lu, JŪN
Shawn Gawle, Camaraderie

Learn more about Houston’s award-winning culinary scene.