James Beard 2026 semifinalists: 8 Rhode Island restaurants and chefs recognized

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.

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.

Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service:

Jesse Hedberg, Club Frills, Providence.

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.