The James Beard Awards recently announced the semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards.
Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious accolades in the culinary world, the James Beard Awards celebrate outstanding talent in the restaurant and food media industries. They also recognize a commitment to equity, sustainability, and fostering an inclusive culture. Since their inception in 1990, with the first awards presented in 1991, the Restaurant and Chef Awards have highlighted excellence across all dining experiences, from fine dining to casual eateries.
For 2025, semifinalists are recognized in 25 categories. In honor of the Awards’ milestone 35th anniversary and the ever-evolving independent restaurant scene, this year introduces three new beverage-focused categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
Explore the list of the Midwest (Missouri and Kansas) 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists below.
Georges French Bistro, Wichita, KS
Jane Sacro Chatham, Vicia, St Louis, MO
Nathaniel Reid Bakery, Kirkwood, MO
Helen Jo Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, MO
JJ’s Restaurant, Kansas City, MO
John Brown’s Underground, Lawrence, KS
Natasha Bahrami, The Gin Room, St. Louis, MO
Alisha Blackwell-Calvert, Madrina, Webster Groves, MO
Jay Sanders, Wild Child, Shawnee, KS
Nick Bognar, Sado, St. Louis, MO
Linda Duerr, The Restaurant at 1900, Mission Woods, KS
Johnny Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, MO
Katie Liu-Sung, Chewology, Kansas City, MO
Loryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box, Webster Groves, MO
Rozz Petrozz, Saltwell Farm Kitchen, Overbrook, KS
Stay tuned as we follow this story. The nominees will be revealed on Wednesday, April 2, with the winners honored at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 16, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
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For 20+ years, the MEET family of products have provided regional and national resources that have kept corporate, association, medical, education, independent, and religious meeting and event planners informed about relevant vendors, industry news, tech innovations, and resources that impact and influence how and where they plan their group business.
