Today, the James Beard Foundation announced its list of chef and restaurant finalists for the James Beard Award, considered one of the biggest honors in the restaurant industry.
The announcement included nominees for Outstanding Restaurateur, Best New Restaurant, and the regional Best Chef awards, as well as finalists for three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
Sue and Jason Chin of The Good Salt Restaurant Group (Seito Sushi, Reyes Mezcaleria, The Osprey, The Monroe, and others) and Omo by Jont were recognized as finalists: The Chins for Outstanding Restauranteurs and Omo by Jont for Best New Restaurant 2025.
The mission of the James Beard Awards® is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.
Ômo by Jônt has been named a finalist for Best New Restaurant at the 2025 James Beard Awards and is the only restaurant in Florida to receive the finalist in this category.
“What an amazing full circle moment for myself and the Omo by Jont and Hive Hospitality teams,” said Chef Ryan Ratino. “My 20 year old self eating at Luma, wanting to do it on Park Ave one day would have never dreamed of this! Very happy to be a part of the Orlando dining community and what’s to come!”
Congratulations to all!
Full List:
https://www.jamesbeard.org/awards
Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony will be held in Chicago on Monday, June 16, along with the Lifetime Achievement and Humanitarian of the Year Award honorees. Tickets for the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago can be purchased here beginning at 3 P.M. ET on Wednesday, April 2. The Awards will be broadcast live on Eater.
