Looking to make dinner plans? At least we know where to start! The James Beard Foundation has revealed its list of semifinalists, and often considered the “Oscars of the food world,” we’d say they know a thing or two about the country’s dining and drink scene.
This year marks the 36th anniversary of the James Beard Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in restaurants, bars and hospitality, with top categories including Outstanding Restaurant, Best Chef and Best New Restaurant.
Miami finds itself nicely represented with four chefs and restaurants in the running. They include a quintessential waterfront restaurant in Edgewater, as well as a Little River spot operating as a bottle shop, market and pizzeria.
Here are all of the 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists from Miami, categorized by their respective nominations:
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
- Amara at Paraiso
Best New Bar
- Bar Bucce
Best Chef: South (AL, AR, FL, LA, MS, PR)
- Michael Beltran, Ariete
- Maria Teresa Gallina and Nicolas Martinez, Recoveco
Winners will be announced at the Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Find the full list of 2026 nominees here.