The prestigious James Beard Awards semifinalists have been announced, and Washington state is once again well-represented, showcasing the vibrant culinary scene across the region. From rising stars to seasoned veterans, let’s dive into the specific categories where Washington talent is vying for national recognition.

Outstanding Chef

Aaron Verzosa, Archipelago: His intimate, seasonal tasting menu of 9-12 Filipino-inspired courses is one of the toughest reservations to snag in the city.

Best Chef: Northwest & Pacific

Seattle:
Kristi Brown, Communion: Known for her Seattle Soul cuisine with menus that celebrate local ingredients.
Melissa Miranda, Musang: Her Filipino-influenced dishes showcase bold flavors and meticulous technique.
Grayson Corrales, MariPili Tapas Bar: Offering a fresh take on Spanish tapas with Washington’s bounty.
Evan Leichtling, Off Alley: His playful yet refined interpretations of classic dishes impress diners.

Beyond Seattle:
Avery Adams, Matia Kitchen (Orcas Island): Bringing island-inspired seafood and seasonal fare to the forefront.
Derek Bray, The Table (Tacoma): Elevating the Tacoma dining scene with his refined, ingredient-driven approach.
Dan Koommoo, Crafted (Yakima): Farm-to-table with agriculturally rich Yakima as their backyard.

Outstanding Restaurateur

Quynh-Vy & Yenvy Pham (Seattle): The duo behind Phở Bắc Súp Shop, Phởcific Standard Time, and The Boat, known for their dedication to Vietnamese cuisine and community building.

Emerging Chef

Janet Becerra (Seattle): Her vibrant dishes at Pancita celebrate Mexican comfort food with a modern twist.

Outstanding Restaurant

Renee Erickson’s The Walrus and the Carpenter (Seattle): A perennial favorite, this seafood-focused gem continues to impress with its fresh catches and lively atmosphere.

Best New Restaurant

Mike and Erin Easton’s Bar Bacetto (Waitsburg): A haven for fresh pasta lovers, Easton gives us one more reason to make the trek to Walla Walla county.

Outstanding Pastry Chef/Baker

Ben Campbell (Seattle): Ben’s Bread Co. has earned him recognition for his sourdough expertise and commitment to quality ingredients.

Outstanding Wine & Beverage Program

Eight Row (Seattle): Their dynamic wine list champions Pacific Northwest producers and showcases creative pairings.

This impressive list of semifinalists highlights the depth of Washington’s culinary scene. And, with the final nominees to be announced April 3, the anticipation for the June awards ceremony is certainly brewing.