The James Beard Awards are a coveted culinary title that many compete for, but only a handful are awarded each year. From restaurateurs to regional chefs, rising stars, and outstanding bars, James Beard recognizes and honors some of the best in the industry. This year, nine New Orleans-based chefs (or duos) and restaurants were named semifinalists of the renowned award. On March 31, finalists were announced. On June 15, winners were named during a gala event in Chicago.

 

2026 James Beard Award Winners

 

Chef Serigne Mbaye
1
Paprika Studios Dakar Menu Item
2

(1) Chef Serigne Mbaye, (2) Dakar NOLA

BEST CHEF: SOUTH

Serigne Mbaye

Dakar NOLA

 

E.J. Lagasse Headshot Zack Smith, Courtesy of Emeril's
1
Gianna Restaurant
2
Emeril's New Orleans Randy Schmidt, Courtesy of Emeril's
3
Emeril's New Orleans Randy Schmidt, Courtesy of Emeril's
4
Chef Donald Link
5

(1) Chef EJ Lagasse, (2) Gianna - Link Restaurant Group, (3) Emeril's, (4) Emeril's, (5) Chef Donald Link

2026 James Beard Award Finalists

 

OUTSTANDING RESTAURATEUR

Donald Link, Stephen Stryjewski - Link Restaurant Group

 

EMERGING CHEF

EJ Lagasse

 

 

Chef Ana Castro
1
Heirloom Tomato Salad con sun Chapulin Vinaigrette - Acamaya Denny Culbert, Courtesy of Acamaya
2

(1) Chef Ana Castro, (2) Heirloom Tomato Salad con sun Chapulin Vinaigrette - ACAMAYA

 

BEST CHEF: SOUTH

Ana Castro

ACAMAYA

 

New Orleans 2026 James Beard Award Nominees

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New Orleans 2026 James Beard Award Nominees