The 2025 James Beard Award semifinalists were recently announced and six Central Florida chefs, restaurants and restaurateurs earned honors in four categories:
- Jason and Sue Chin of the Good Salt Restaurant Group for Outstanding Restaurateur
- Omo by Jont for Best New Restaurant
- Yohann Le Bescond for Outstanding Pastry Chef/Baker
- Lordfer Lalicon for Best Chef: South
- Sonny Nguyen for Best Chef: South
Considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, the James Beard Awards recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive.
In celebration of the Awards’ pivotal anniversary, as well as in recognition of the ever-evolving independent restaurant landscape, the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards have expanded with a focus on beverages, introducing three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
Winners / Finalists will be announced at the James Beard Awards ceremony in Chicago on June 16.
Read all about it and the nominee’s reactions here:
