Overview

• The James Beard Foundation unveiled its 2025 finalists, showcasing chefs, restaurants, and beverage professionals from across the United States.
• This year's awards introduce three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
• Finalists represent a broad range of cuisines and regions, including emerging culinary hubs like Grand Junction, Tulsa, and Providence.
• Minnesota has six national finalists, including Ann Ahmed for Outstanding Chef and Spoon and Stable for Outstanding Restaurant, while Maine is absent from the finalist list for the first time in 11 years.
• Impact Awards were also presented, honoring leaders in food advocacy and sustainability, alongside lifetime recognition for author Toni Tipton-Martin.