2026 James Beard: Miami restaurants, chefs nominated for awards

Why it matters: The Beards are like the Oscars for the American hospitality industry, so even the semis are significant.

State of plate: This year's semifinalists are all newcomers.

• Best New Bar: Bar Bucce in Little River
• Best Chef — South: Michael Beltran of Ariete in Coconut Grove.
• Best Chef — South: Maria Teresa Gallina and Nicolas Martinez of Recoveco in South Miami.
• Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Amara at Paraiso in Edgewater.

The intrigue: This year's list omits a few notable names in Miami's culinary scene, like Miami Beach favorite Macchialina, which had earned noms the last two years.

• More notably, though, the Chang siblings aren't included.
• The brother and sister duo Valerie and Nando Chang won the top spot in the Best Chef — South category in 2024 and 2025, respectively, for their work at the now-closed Maty's and Itamae AO.

The big picture: The noms follow a brutal year in Miami for the restaurant and bar industry, and omissions like the Chang siblings are a stark reminder of what we've lost.

Yes, but: This year's list also highlights the talent and creativity that's still here in the 305, keeping Miami an exciting (and still growing) dining destination.