SAN ANTONIO \u2013 Several San Antonio chefs and restaurants were named semifinalists for the prestigious 2026 James Beard Awards.<\/p>\n
The James Beard Foundation, which calls itself the \u201cpinnacle of culinary recognition in the U.S.,\u201d announced the semifinalists Wednesday in a news release.<\/p>\n
Mixtli, located in Southtown, is among the semifinalists for the Outstanding Hospitality Award presented by Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water. The award honors restaurants that consistently excel in food, atmosphere, hospitality and operations.<\/p>\n
Anacacho Coffee & Cantina, which debuted on May 9, 2025, is a semifinalist in the \u201cBest New Restaurant\u201d category.<\/p>\n
The award recognizes a restaurant that shows \u201cexcellence in cuisine, seems likely to make a significant impact in years to come, and demonstrates consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality, and operations,\u201d according to the foundation.<\/p>\n
Semifinalists from three other San Antonio restaurants are up for the \u201cBest Chef: Texas\u201d category.<\/p>\n
The San Antonio semifinalists are:<\/p>\n
Emil Oliva, Leche de Tigre<\/p>\n
Francisco Estrada and Lizzeth Martinez, Naco Mexican<\/p>\n
Sue Kim, The Magpie<\/p>\n
Tavel Bristol-Joseph of Nicosi is among the semifinalists for \u201cOutstanding Pastry Chef or Baker.\u201d The award goes to a candidate who shows \u201cexceptional skills and can be affiliated with any food business and does not need a brick-and-mortar presence,\u201d the release states.<\/p>\n
In Seguin, Texas, chefs David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes of Burnt Bean Co. were nominated for the Outstanding Chef category. The award recognizes chefs who set high culinary standards and serve as a \u201cpositive example for other food professionals.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cRecognition of any kind \u2014 whether as a semifinalist, nominee, or winner \u2014 can lead to significant visibility, new opportunities, and positive economic impact that helps sustain these vital businesses,\u201d the release states.<\/p>\n
Restaurant and chef nominees will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, according to the foundation. The James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony will be held on Monday, June 15, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.<\/p>\n
Read also:<\/p>\n
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