The James Beard Foundation has announced the semifinalists for its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards, including eight Rhode Island restaurants. Here’s who made the cut:
Best Chef: Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT):
Kevin O’Donnell, Giusto, Newport Annie Parisi, JAYD BUN, South Kingstown Derek Wagner, Nicks on Broadway, Providence. Wagner is a semifinalist for the second consecutive year.
Chef Kevin O’Donnell: GiustoChef Annie Parisi: JAYD BUNChef Derek Wagner: Nicks on Broadway
Best New Bar:
LOMA, Providence. The Spruce Street bar opened in December 2024 and has received national recognition for its cocktail program.
Best New Restaurant:
Claudine, Providence. The restaurant opened in June 2025.
Emerging Chef:
Chef Jasmine Watson, Audette, Newport.
Chef Jasmine Watson, Audette
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service:
Jesse Hedberg, Club Frills, Providence.
Jesse Hedberg
Outstanding Restaurant:
Oberlin, Providence. The Westminster Street restaurant was also a semifinalist in this category in 2025.
Finalists will be announced March 31 and winners will be revealed June 15 at a ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
ContributorJanuary 22, 20261 Mins read1 
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