The James Beard Foundation recently unveiled the nominees for its 2025 culinary awards, significantly reducing the number of Los Angeles-area contenders from the initial list of semifinalists. While nearly 20 restaurants, chefs, and establishments in L.A. were recognized earlier this year, only five nominees from Los Angeles and Orange County made the final cut. The James Beard Foundation Awards are renowned for honoring excellence in the dining and hospitality industry, making them some of the most prestigious accolades in the culinary world. The winners of this year’s awards will be revealed in a ceremony set for June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
### Rising Stars in the Culinary World
In the category of best chef: California, L.A.-area chefs have been making waves. Chef Jon Yao, known for his innovative approach to Taiwanese cuisine at Kato, has been a standout figure. His restaurant not only claimed the top spot on the L.A. Times’ list of best restaurants two years in a row but also earned a Michelin star and a place among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Yao’s culinary expertise has garnered him multiple nominations and accolades over the years, solidifying his position as a rising star in the industry.
Daniel Castillo, the mastermind behind Heritage Barbecue in San Juan Capistrano, is another chef making a name for himself. With a focus on crafting tender brisket, unique smoked sausages, and inventive cross-cultural dishes, Castillo has brought a fresh perspective to traditional barbecue. This year marks Castillo’s first James Beard nomination, highlighting his dedication to his craft and his commitment to showcasing Orange County’s vibrant culinary scene.
### Celebrating Excellence and Dedication
Tara Monsod, a chef based in San Diego, has been recognized for her modern take on Filipino cuisine at Animae and her culinary prowess at Le Coq, a French steakhouse in La Jolla. Monsod’s innovative approach to cooking has earned her a nomination in this year’s awards, underscoring her talent and creativity in the kitchen.
The nominations also extend beyond Southern California, with chefs from San Francisco vying for the title of best chef: California. Richard Lee of Saison and Kosuke Tada of Mijoté are among the finalists, representing the diverse culinary landscape of the state.
### A Toast to Excellence in Beverages
Gusto Bread, an artisanal bakery in Long Beach, has once again been recognized for its outstanding contributions to the culinary scene. Owners Arturo Enciso and Ana Belén Salatino have transformed their humble beginnings into a thriving bakery that focuses on using heirloom grains and locally sourced ingredients, showcasing a commitment to quality and tradition.
Strong Water, a tiki destination in Anaheim, has made a splash in the category of outstanding wine or other beverage programs. The husband-and-wife duo behind the establishment, Robert Adamson and Ying Chang, have created a unique space that celebrates the art of mixology and hospitality.
Tobin Shea, the bar director at Redbird, is a contender for outstanding professional in cocktail service. With a career spanning three decades, Shea has dedicated himself to the craft of bartending, creating themed menus and innovative drink offerings. His nomination reflects not only his individual accomplishments but also the collective efforts of his team at Redbird.
As the culinary world eagerly awaits the announcement of this year’s James Beard Foundation Awards, the nominees stand as shining examples of excellence, creativity, and dedication in the industry. Their stories and achievements serve as a testament to the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of California and beyond.
The majority of L.A.’s 2025 semifinalists did not proceed to the nominations round, leaving only a select few to compete for the prestigious awards. In the best chef: California category, nearly half of the semifinalists hailed from the Los Angeles and Orange County areas, showcasing the region’s culinary talent and innovation. With a mix of seasoned chefs and up-and-coming stars, this year’s James Beard Foundation Awards promise to be a celebration of excellence and creativity in the world of food and hospitality.
