Atlanta restaurants, chefs named 2026 James Beard semifinalists

Driving the news: The James Beard Foundation on Wednesday released its semifinalists for awards recognizing the nation's best restaurants, chefs and bar programs.

They include:

• Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Claudia Martinez, Bar ANA
• Outstanding Hospitality: Aria
• Best New Bar: Lucky Star; Madeira Park
• Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: Taurean Philpott, Avize
• Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: Miles Macquarrie, Kimball House
• Best Chefs (Southeast): Carlo Gan and Mia Orino, Kamayan ATL; J. Trent Harris, Mujō; and Freddy Money, Atlas.

The fine print: Todd Schafer of Abel Brown in Augusta was also nominated for the Best Chef award.

What's next: Finalists will be unveiled March 31, and winners will be announced June 15 at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony in Chicago.