James Beard — Las Vegas surges
James Beard semifinalists were announced today and Las Vegas landed a record haul: 14 local chefs, restaurateurs, and beverage pros made the list as the city prepares for Michelin’s return after a 17‑year absence (963kklz.com). Oregon is also well represented with Portland neighborhood bistros among regional nominees, and the live awards ceremony is scheduled for June 15, 2026 (opb.org).
Las Vegas posted a city‑record 14 James Beard semifinalist slots — the largest single‑year showing in the city’s history. (neon.reviewjournal.com) The list includes industry veteran Elizabeth Blau (nominated in Outstanding Restaurateur) and 26‑year‑old Ellie Parker, nominated as Emerging Chef for Main St. Provisions after winning season 24 of Hell’s Kitchen. (jamesbeard.org) Six local chefs were tapped in the Best Chef: Southwest longlist — Oulay Ceesay Fisher (Calabash African Kitchen), Brian Howard (Sparrow + Wolf), Yuri Szarzewski (Partage), Sarah Thompson (Casa Playa), Jamie Tran (Black Sheep) and James Trees (Bar Bohème). (neon.reviewjournal.com) Beverage and pastry programs also earned slots: Ada’s was singled out for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program, Milkfish Bakeshop’s Kimberly McIntosh made Outstanding Pastry Chef, Mariena Mercer Boarini received a cocktail‑service nod, and Bank Atcharawan of Jipata was named in beverage service. (vegaspublicity.com) The local surge dovetails with the MICHELIN Guide’s announced return via a new Southwest edition covering Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah — Michelin last published a Las Vegas guide in 2009, when 17 local restaurants received stars. (press.lvcva.com) Oregon placed seven people and three businesses on the James Beard longlist, led by Le Pigeon (Outstanding Restaurant), Scotch Lodge (Outstanding Bar), Coquine (Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program) and Joel Gunderson of Heavenly Creatures (Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service). (pdxmonthly.com)
