10 Missouri Chefs and Restaurants 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists

• February 26, 2026

Ten Missouri restaurants and chefs were named semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Foundation Awards, including seven semifinalists in the St. Louis area and three semifinalists in the Kansas City area. According to the James Beard Foundation, “The James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One represent the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the US. Restaurant and Chef nominees will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, and winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, 2026 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.”

Missouri’s 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists:

Best New Restaurant

• Anjin, Kansas City, MO
• Robin, St. Louis, MO

Outstanding Restaurant:

• Vicia, St. Louis, MO

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker:

• Helen Jo Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, MO

Outstanding Hospitality:

• Louie, Clayton, MO

Best Chef: Midwest:

• Alex Henry, El Molino del Sureste, St. Louis, MO
• Johnny Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, MO
• Loryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box, Webster Groves, MO
• Nick Bognar, Sado, Pavilion, St. Louis, MO
• Philip Day, Root Food + Wine, Augusta, MO

And in the bar category, Diana Condori of Fern Bar in Kansas City, Missouri made the list for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.

Missouri’s strong showing at the James Beard Awards reflects a food scene that is both deeply rooted and boldly innovative. From chef-driven fine dining in St. Louis to globally inspired concepts and nationally recognized barbecue traditions in Kansas City, the state’s culinary landscape is defined by creativity, authenticity, and hospitality. 

Learn more about living in Missouri