Jan 21, 2026 - Food and Drink

10 Minnesota chefs, restaurants named James Beard semifinalists

Audrey Kennedy

Illustration of a trophy wearing a chef's hat — Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

Ten Minnesota chefs and restaurants were named semifinalists for this year's James Beard Awards.

Dig in: Ann Ahmed of Khâluna and Alma's Alex Roberts were nominated in the national Outstanding Chef category, while Bar La Grassa is up for Outstanding Restaurant.

Shigeyuki Furukawa (Kado No Mise), Diane Moua (Diane's Place), Yia Vang (Vinai) and Gustavo Romero and Kate Romero (Oro by Nixta) are competing for Best Chef-Midwest.

Plus: The Beard "long-list" has several first-time nominees in their categories, like the trio behind the Travail Collective for Outstanding Restaurateur and Joan's in the Park for Outstanding Hospitality.

Kyle Lussier of Grand Rapids restaurant The Pines is also up for Emerging Chef.

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10 Minnesota chefs, restaurants named James Beard semifinalists

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