The 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists just dropped, and Austin showed up like it always does: confident, slightly chaotic, and very hungry.

Often called the Oscars of the food world, the James Beard Awards spotlight the chefs, restaurants, and beverage pros shaping how America eats. This year, Austin landed nine semifinalist nominations, spanning bakeries, hospitality, beverage programs, and some of the most competitive chef categories in the country.

Finalists will be announced on March 31, with the awards ceremony set for June 15 in Chicago. Until then, consider this your guide to the Austin spots and people carrying the torch.

Outstanding Bakery

Mercado Sin Nombre

Tiny, focused, and deeply rooted in Mexican culinary tradition, Mercado Sin Nombre continues to punch far above its size. Known for its devotion to maíz, thoughtful coffee, and beautifully restrained execution, this East Austin gem is one of just two Texas bakeries recognized nationwide this year.

This nomination feels less like a surprise and more like a long overdue acknowledgment.

Outstanding Hospitality

Barley Swine

Barley Swine has built a reputation on precision without pretense. Yes, it holds a MICHELIN Star, but what really sets it apart is how intentional the entire experience feels, from pacing to service to the way the food actually lands on the table.

The team behind Barley Swine, who also run Odd Duck and Sour Duck Market, have quietly helped define modern Austin dining. This nomination puts that influence front and center.

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

Kalimotxo

Named after a famously unpretentious Spanish drink, Kalimotxo treats beverages with the same seriousness most restaurants reserve for entrées. Their program is playful, smart, and built for people who actually want to drink, not just admire the glassware.

Sharing this nomination with just one other Texas restaurant, Kalimotxo proves Austin’s beverage scene is no longer flying under the radar.

Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service

Celia Pellegrini of Este

At Este, Celia Pellegrini has built a beverage program that feels confident without being flashy. It is seafood-forward, coastal in spirit, and anchored by one of Austin’s most beloved happy hours.

This nomination recognizes the kind of behind-the-scenes excellence that keeps people coming back without always knowing exactly why.

Best Chef: Texas

Austin Leads the Pack

Austin didn’t just show up here. It dominated.

This year, Austin has more semifinalists for Best Chef: Texas than any other city in the state, which says a lot about where the city’s culinary momentum is right now.

The nominees include:

  • Thai Changthong of P Thai’s Khao Man Gai & Noodles
  • Michael Che of Tsuke Edomae
  • Ali Clem of La Barbecue
  • Daniela Landaverde and Rosa Landaverde of La Santa Barbacha
  • Bob Somsith of Lao’d Bar

From refined omakase to soulful barbecue to deeply personal Lao and Mexican cooking, this list reads like a map of where Austin is headed, not where it has been.

Austin currently counts seven James Beard Award winners among its ranks, and this year’s semifinalists make it clear the city is not slowing down. What ties all of these nominees together is not trend chasing or flash, but intention, identity, and a clear point of view.

Austin food has grown up. It still knows how to have fun, but it also knows exactly what it wants to say. And the rest of the country is finally listening.