Introduction to the James Beard Awards
The James Beard Awards, often referred to as the "Oscars of the culinary world," have announced their finalists for 2025. This year, several Chicago restaurants have made the list, showcasing the city’s vibrant culinary scene. The awards, which are named after the late James Beard, a pioneering American chef, recognize excellence in the culinary industry.
Chicago Finalists
Five Chicago restaurants are finalists for this year’s James Beard Awards, it was announced Wednesday by the James Beard Foundation. Lincoln Park’s ode to Middle Eastern cuisine Galit is a finalist for outstanding restaurant. Finalists in the best chefs Great Lakes region include Chris Jung and Erling Wu-Bower of the West Loop’s Asian-inspired Maxwells Trading; Thai Dang of Pilsen Vietnamese eatery HaiSous; and Noah Sandoval of fine dining destination Oriole, the James Beard Foundation announced Wednesday.
Notable Finalists
Kumiko in the West Loop is nominated for outstanding bar. Galit’s co-owner Andrés Clavero said that being among the finalists feels “surreal.” “I’m very proud of our team,” Clavero said. “They help share our vision every single day and it’s really a testament to them.”
Reaction from the Industry
“These remarkable leaders exemplify our ‘Good Food for Good’ mission through their commitment to excellence, to the evolution of the independent restaurant industry, and our broader food culture,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation via statement. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the coveted awards.
Other Recognitions
Shut out of finalists consideration were the critically acclaimed and recently Michelin-starred Cariño, which was a semifinalist for best new restaurant; Feld restaurant’s Jacob Potashnick, who earned a first-time semi-finalist nomination in the category of emerging chef; and Chef Lee Wolen of Boka, who was a semifinalist nominee for outstanding chef. Lem’s Bar-B-Q, a staple of the South Side’s Chatham neighborhood, was recognized last month by the Beards as an “America’s Classic,” making it one of only six restaurants nationally to be selected.
Upcoming Ceremony
This year’s winners will be announced June 16 during a gala ceremony at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House, marking the 10th year the ceremony has called Chicago home. Food writer and journalist Toni Tipton-Martin, editor-in-chief of Cook’s Country Magazine and its related television show, will receive the Beards’ Lifetime Achievement Award.
2025 Chicago Chef and Restaurant James Beard Award Finalists
Outstanding restaurant: Galit
Best Chef Great Lakes:
— Thai Dang, HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
— Chris Jung and Erling Wu-Bower, Maxwells Trading
— Noah Sandoval, Oriole
Outstanding Bar: Kumiko
Conclusion
The James Beard Awards continue to recognize and celebrate the best in the culinary world. With several Chicago restaurants and chefs as finalists, the city’s culinary scene is once again in the spotlight. The awards ceremony in June will be a highly anticipated event, and the winners will be a testament to the hard work and dedication of the individuals and establishments recognized.
FAQs
Q: When will the winners of the James Beard Awards be announced?
A: The winners will be announced on June 16 during a gala ceremony at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House.
Q: Which Chicago restaurants are finalists for the James Beard Awards?
A: Galit, Maxwells Trading, HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen, Oriole, and Kumiko are among the finalists.
Q: What is the James Beard Foundation’s mission?
A: The James Beard Foundation’s mission is to promote “Good Food for Good,” recognizing excellence in the culinary industry and contributing to the evolution of the independent restaurant industry and broader food culture.
