Houston’s culinary excellence shines on the national stage. Local talents earned 2026 James Beard Award nominations, highlighting the city’s vibrant food scene.

HOUSTON — Houston’s culinary scene is making big noise on the national stage. Several Houston-area nominees appear among the 2026 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award nominees, announced Tuesday by the James Beard Foundation at a ceremony in Chicago.

Considered the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the U.S., the James Beard Awards celebrate exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries. This year’s nominees will be celebrated at the awards ceremony on Monday, June 15, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

RELATED: Houston chefs, restaurants take 12 spots on James Beard Awards’ 2026 semifinalists list


Houston’s nominees take center stage


Outstanding Restaurateur

Hugo Ortega and Tracy Vaught, H Town Restaurant GroupRestaurants: Hugo’s, Xochi, Urbe, and others

Ortega and Vaught lead Houston’s charge in the Outstanding Restaurateur category, which honors someone who uses their establishment(s) as a vehicle for building community and demonstrates creativity in entrepreneurship.


Best New Restaurant

This newcomer, which opened between Oct. 1, 2024, and Sept. 30, 2025, already demonstrates excellence in cuisine and is seen as likely to make a significant impact in years to come.


Emerging Chef

Adrian Torrers, Maximo, West University Place


Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service

June Rodil – Restaurant: March

Rodil was nominated for curating and serving wine, beer, or other offerings with high standards, creativity, and excellence in hospitality.


Best Chef: Texas

Ope Amosu, ChòpnBlọk, Houston, TexasEvelyn Garcia and Henry Lu, JŪN, Houston, Texas

Both chef duos compete in the regional Best Chef: Texas category, which recognizes chefs setting high standards in culinary skills and leadership while helping create sustainable work cultures.

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