Jun 16, 2025 - Food and Drink

James Beard Awards snub San Antonio yet again

Madalyn Mendoza

A medal inscribed with "James Beard Foundation" and a illustration of Beard. — San Antonio had never won a James Beard award. Photo: Jeff Schear via Getty Images

San Antonio's two James Beard Awards hopefuls — Mixtli for Outstanding Hospitality and Emil Oliva of Leche de Tigre for Best Texas Chef — left Monday night's ceremony empty-handed.

Why it matters: San Antonio has never won a James Beard Award, long considered the Oscars of the culinary world.

State of play: We started with seven semifinalists representing the Alamo City, and those were whittled down to the two standout Southtown restaurants.

What they're saying: "I'm walking away from this experience inspired, proud, and more motivated than ever," Oliva tells Axios. "Peruvian food — and what we're doing in San Antonio — is special, and I'm excited to keep pushing it forward."

Between the lines: Going home with an award or not, making it off the long list of semifinalists is something to be proud of.

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James Beard Awards snub San Antonio yet again

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