The James Beard Foundation has announced the nominees for its 2025 culinary awards. Five chefs and restaurants from Los Angeles and Orange County have made the cut. Jon Yao of Kato in Los Angeles is a standout nominee in the Best Chef: California category.
Minneapolis is home to some of the best restaurants in the nation, and this is proof. Congratulations to Bucheron and Bar Brava! https://t.co/rmg70grqQl
— Mayor Jacob Frey (@MayorFrey) April 2, 2025
Yao has earned acclaim for his tasting menu, which reflects his Taiwanese heritage. Daniel Castillo, who leads Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano, is also nominated. Known for its tender brisket and creative smoked sausages, this is Castillo’s first James Beard recognition.
A sincere congratulations to the five Chicago restaurants nominated for the James Beard Awards! Galit, HaiSous, Maxwells Trading, Oriole, and Kumiko continue to elevate our city’s culinary scene with excellence and innovation. 🍽️https://t.co/Rl2NM5snJw
— Mayor Brandon Johnson (@ChicagosMayor) April 2, 2025
So far, the #Boston area has at least two James Beard award finalists. Follow along here: https://t.co/t2ItwF74l7
— Steph Solis is on Threads (@stephmsolis) April 2, 2025
San Diego’s Tara Monsod, known for her work at Animae and Le Coq, is also up for Best Chef: California. Rounding out the category are San Francisco’s Richard Lee of Saison and Kosuke Tada of Mijoté.
Culinary nominations in Southern California
In the Outstanding Bakery category, Gusto Bread in Long Beach has been recognized. The artisanal panadería by Arturo Enciso and Ana Belén Salatino focuses on heirloom grains and local sourcing. Strong Water in Anaheim has returned as a nominee in the Outstanding Wine or Other Beverages Program category.
The bar is known for its ambitious tiki theme and is a favorite in Southern California. Lastly, Redbird’s bar director Shea is a contender for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service. With over 30 years of bartending experience, Shea emphasizes themed menus with elevated classics and a notable no-ABV program.
The winners will be announced on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. The James Beard Foundation Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in the dining and hospitality industry and are among the most prestigious accolades in the culinary world.
