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Atlanta’s culinary scene is earning national acclaim as local chefs and restaurants are named 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists.
Atlanta nominees include Claudia Martinez of Bar ANA for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker; Aria for Outstanding Hospitality; and standout beverage talents Taurean Philpott of Avize and Miles Macquarrie of Kimball House. In the competitive Best Chef: Southeast category, Carlo Gan and Mia Orino of Kamayan ATL, J. Trent Harris of Mujō and Freddy Money of Atlas are semifinalists.
Atlanta bars Lucky Star and Madeira Park also earned Best New Bar nods, with Meherwan and Molly Irani recognized for Outstanding Restaurateur.
– Rehgan Smith, 360 Media, Inc.