Out of the 13 Houston chefs and restaurants initially named semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, four have advanced to the final round.  The James Beard Awards honor outstanding talent in the culinary and hospitality industries across the country. This year’s Houston finalists span a range of categories, from Best Chef to Outstanding Wine Program, showcasing the city’s vibrant and diverse dining scene.  Click to expand Emmanuel Chavez of Tatemó is once again a finalist in the Best Chef: Texas category, marking his third consecutive nomination. He continues to earn acclaim for his masterful use of heirloom corn, crafting dishes that pay homage to the cultural significance of maize in Mexican cuisine. Joining him in the same category is Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast in Spring, earning his second nomination for the restaurant’s bold, Mexican-inspired offerings that push creative boundaries.  Click to expand Ema, celebrated for its Mexican-inspired pastries and high-quality coffee, has secured a spot in the Best New Restaurant category. Meanwhile, March is a finalist in the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program category, thanks to its expertly curated and diverse selection of Mediterranean wines.  All four Houston finalists have also earned recognition in the prestigious Michelin Guide, adding to their impressive list of accolades.   Winners will be announced during the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.  Learn more about Houston’s award-winning culinary scene. 

Houston’s culinary scene continues to shine on the national stage, as 13 of the region’s restaurants and chefs have secured semifinalist nominations for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards.   From beloved local favorites to emerging talents, this year’s semifinalists showcase the dynamic spirit and global flair that make Houston a culinary destination like no other.  Here’s who made the list:   National Categories:  Outstanding Restaurateur: Itai Ben Eli and Itamar Levy, Sof Hospitality Group (Hamsa, Badolina Bakery, Doris Metropolitan and Októ)  Outstanding Restaurateur: Sara Stayer and Martin Stayer, Nobie's, Toasted Coconut and Nonno's Emerging Chef: Suu Khin, Burmalicious  Best New Restaurant: Ema  Outstanding Bakery: Koffeteria  Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: March  Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service: Andres Blanco, Le Jardinier  Best Chef: Texas Nominees:  Ope Amosu, ChòpnBlọk  Thomas Bille, Belly of the Beast (Spring)  Emmanuel Chavez, Tatemó  Evelyn Garcia, Jūn  Beatriz Martines, Xalisko (The Woodlands)  David Skinner, Ishtia (Kemah)  Finalists will be announced on April 2, and the winners will be revealed at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.  Learn more about Houston’s award-winning culinary scene.