Miami’s food scene continues to be recognized as one of the best in the nation! A number of local establishments and culinary talents have been named semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, the foundation announced Wednesday.
Established in 1990 with the first awards distributed in 1991, the James Beard Foundation “celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive.” This year marks the 35th anniversary of the prestigious culinary awards and Miami has been well represented.
So, if you’re a passionate foodie looking for your next best meal, look no further than these top contenders.
These are Miami’s semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards:
Best Chef: South
- Nando Chang of Itamae AO
Outstanding Restaurant presented by Acqua Panna® Natural Spring Water
- Ghee Indian Kitchen
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
- Macchialina
Outstanding Bar
- Café La Trova
Best New Bar (new)
- ViceVersa
Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service (new)
- Allegra Angelo of Vinya
Additional Florida semifinalists include:
Best Chef: South
- Nikhil Abuvala of Roux 30a, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
- Lordfer Lalicon of Kaya, Orlando, FL
- Sean “Sonny” Nguyen of Domu, Orlando, FL
Outstanding Restaurateur
- Sue Chin and Jason Chin, Good Salt Restaurant Group (Seito Sushi, Reyes Mezcaleria, The Osprey), Orlando, FL
Emerging Chef presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
- Kayla Pfeiffer, Bicyclette Cookshop, Naples, FL
Best New Restaurant
- Ômo by Jônt, Winter Park, FL
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
- Yohann Le Bescond, Ocala, FL
Nominees will be announced on Wednesday, April 2, and winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. You can see the full list of semifinalists on the James Beard Foundation website.