JAMES BEARD SCOOP: Finalists announced, CT restaurants/chef nominated in multiple categories

The 2026 James Beard Finalists have been announced and Connecticut is on the list in multiple categories! The winners will be announced on June 15th, but let’s celebrate these restaurants and chefs on being finalists!

*Nominated for Outstanding Chef*
A chef who sets high culinary standards and has served as a positive example for other food professionals.
David Standridge, The Shipwright's Daughter, Mystic, CT


*Nominated for Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages Program*
A restaurant that demonstrates exceptional care and skill in the pairing of wine and other beverages with food. This includes the selection, preparation,and serving of wine, cocktails, spirits, coffee, tea, beer, or any other beverage with outstanding hospitality and service that helps inform and enhance a customer’s appreciation of the beverage(s). Ethical sourcing will also be considered.
The Port of Call, Mystic, CT

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*Nominated for Best Chef: Northeast*
Chefs who set high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities and who are making efforts to help create a sustainable work culture in their respective regions.
David DiStasi, Materia Ristorante, Bantam, CT


For nearly four decades, the James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One have served as the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the U.S. The Restaurant and Chef nominees recognized today embody exceptional talent and leadership within the independent restaurant industry. Winners will be revealed at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, 2026 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
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See who these restaurants and chefs are competing against in their category here: https://www.jamesbeard.org/.../james-beard-awards...