6 MI Restaurants, Chefs Named 2026 James Beard Semifinalists

Six Michigan restaurants and chefs were named 2026 James Beard semifinalists, the organization announced Wednesday.

A vanguard of culinary honors in the United States since 1990, the Awards have been a definitive source for culinary excellence for more than 35 years.

Sometimes known as the “Oscars of food,” the awards recognize eateries and chefs who create exceptional food, food media content, and better food systems, the James Beard Foundation said. Awards also recognize a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.

The semifinalists announced on Wednesday are across 14 categories. The best chef semifinalists are in a dozen regions.

In Michigan, the following restaurants and chefs were named semifinalists this year:

Best New Restaurant

• Echelon Kitchen and Bar, Ann Arbor

Best New Bar

• Bar Chenin, Detroit

Best Chef: Great Lakes

• Javier Bardauil, BARDA, Detroit
• Andy Elliott and Emily Stewart, Modern Bird, Traverse City
• James Galbraith, PostBoy, New Buffalo
• John Yelinek, Ladder 4 Wine Bar, Detroit

Receiving a James Beard Award can be transformational for restaurants and chefs. Recognition of any kind — whether as a semifinalist, nominee, or winner — can lead to significant visibility, new opportunities, and positive economic impact that helps sustain these vital businesses. In 2025, 96 percent of surveyed semifinalists reported a positive impact on their business and communities following their recognition, the organization said in a news release.

Nominees will be announced on March 31, and winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 15 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.