3 NWA chefs selected as semifinalists for 2025 James Beard Awards
by January 22, 2025 12:54 pm 203 views
The James Beard Foundation has named three Northwest Arkansas chefs as semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, the foundation announced Wednesday (Jan. 22). This year marks the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards.
Matthew Cooper of Bentonville-based Conifer, Rafael Rios of Bentonville-based Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico, and Jordan Wright of Johnson-based Wright’s Barbecue are the Arkansas semifinalists in the Best Chef: South category of the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards.
The James Beard Awards, which have over 70 categories, recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries and are considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, the release shows.
“For 35 years, the James Beard Awards have stood as a testament to American food culture and its exceptional talent. What began as a celebration of culinary achievement has evolved into a platform leading chefs and the broader culinary industry towards a new standard of excellence,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation. “As we mark this milestone, we are committed to our vision of a vibrant independent restaurant industry that stands as a cornerstone of American culture, community and economy, and drives towards a better food system.”
The 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards include three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
“This year brings renewed energy to the Restaurant and Chef Awards, as we shine a spotlight on the exciting talent shaping American food culture as well as beverage, which is a focus for us,” said Dawn Padmore, vice president of awards of the James Beard Foundation.
According to the release, recognition at any stage of the awards process can increase visibility and provide economic impact for businesses. In the past two years, 66% of semifinalists reported a “significant increase in covers after the announcement. This is especially crucial at a time when independent restaurants continue to operate on razor-thin margins.”
The top five nominees in each category will be announced on April 2, and for Best New Restaurant, the top 10 are announced as nominees. Winners will be recognized on June 16 at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
Link here for the list of 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists.