SUNLAND PARK, N.M (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 Executive Chef Danny Calleros of Ardovino\u2019s Desert Crossing has been named a semifinalist for the 2026 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest. <\/p>\n
This recognition places him among the top culinary leaders from Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Oklahoma. <\/p>\n
The James Beard Awards, often called the “Academy Awards of the food world,” honor chefs, restaurants, and food professionals who have significantly impacted American cuisine.<\/p>\n
KFOX14\/CBS4 sat down with Calleros about this recognition. <\/p>\n
WATCH:<\/p>\n
Chef at Ardovino\u2019s Desert Crossing named semifinalist for James Beard Award for Best Chef (Credit: KFOX14\/CBS4)<\/p>\n
Calleros is not the only one being recognized in the Borderland.<\/p>\n
Taconeta in El Paso has been named as a semifinalist in the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program. <\/p>\n
Chef Andres Pablos of Acc\u00e1 in El Paso is also being recognized as a semifinalist for Best Chef: Texas. <\/p>\n
Gabe Padilla and Melissa Padilla of Caf\u00e9 Piro in Socorro have also been named as semifinalist for Best Chef: Texas. <\/p>\n
Marina Ardovino, co-owner of Ardovino\u2019s Desert Crossing, expressed her excitement, saying, “We are overjoyed that Chef Calleros has been named a James Beard Award semifinalist. This honor is a testament to his extraordinary talent, dedication, and the way he brings out the very best of our regional ingredients and flavors.”<\/p>\n
Ardovino\u2019s Desert Crossing, a regional culinary destination since 1997, is celebrated for its innovative cuisine and commitment to locally sourced ingredients. <\/p>\n
The James Beard Foundation will announce the finalists later this year, with winners revealed at the 2026 awards ceremony in Chicago.<\/p>\n
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