James Beard names 13 New Orleans semifinalists for 2025 awards

The big picture: The awards are often referred to as "the Oscars" of the hospitality industry.

• They recognize exceptional talent and "a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive," a press release says.

Here are this year's New Orleans semifinalists:

• Mason Hereford of Turkey & the Wolf, Molly's Rise & Shine, Hungry Eyes, and others, for Outstanding Restaurateur. His favorite drink spot.
• GW Fins for Outstanding Restaurant. One of our favorite meals last year was there.
• Kaitlin Guerin of Lagniappe Bakehouse for Emerging Chef. Why we love it.
• Porgy's Seafood Market for Best New Restaurant
• Bellegarde Bakery for Outstanding Bakery
• Compére Lapin for Outstanding Hospitality
• Pluck Wine Bar for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
• Chandelier Bar at the Four Seasons for Outstanding Bar
• Abigail Gullo of the LOA Bar for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
• Melissa Araujo of Alma Cafe; Ana Castro of Acamaya; Nicole Cabrera Mills of Pêche; and Arvinder Vilkhu and Ashwin Vilkhu of Saffron NOLA for Best Chef: South. That category encompasses Alabama, Arkanasas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Puerto Rico. What we love at Acamaya.

Zoom out: The New Orleans names are in addition to two others for Louisiana, including Madonna Broussard for Laura's II in Lafayette for Best Chef: South and Alan Walter of The Brakes Bar in Baton Rouge for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service, a new category this year.

Flashback: Jewel of the South and Dakar NOLA won James Beard Awards last year, earning the titles of the best bar and best new restaurant in America.

• The Saffron team was also a Best Chef: South nominee last year but did not walk away with the trophy.

What's next: The James Beard Foundation will whittle this list down to nominees, which will be announced April 2.

• Winners will be announced during a big ceremony in Chicago on June 16.