Cincinnati’s food scene is officially having a moment, and now it’s on the national stage.

Three standout restaurants, Sudova, Nolia Kitchen, and The Baker’s Table, have been named finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards, one of the most prestigious honors in the culinary world.

For nearly four decades, the James Beard Foundation has recognized excellence in American food culture. The James Beard Awards® are widely considered the industry’s highest benchmark, celebrating standout talent and leadership across the independent restaurant landscape. Winners will be announced on June 15, 2026, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Until then, Cincinnati has plenty to celebrate.

Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH)
Cincinnati claims two of five finalists in this highly competitive category:

Sarah Dworak, Sudova, Cincinnati, OH
Chef-owner Sarah Dworak brings her Eastern European heritage to life with elevated dishes, from house-made pierogi and rich borsch to brisket stroganoff and khachapuri. Her deeply personal, flavor-forward menu has earned a loyal following and national recognition.

Jeffrey Harris, Nolia Kitchen, Cincinnati, OH
Harris serves New Orleans-inspired Southern cuisine with seasonality and bold flavors. His ever-changing menu highlights warm hospitality and comforting, memorable dishes.

Other finalists in this category:

  • Vinnie Cimino, Cordelia, Cleveland, OH
  • Norman Fenton, Cariño, Chicago, IL
  • Jacob Potashnick, Feld, Chicago, IL

Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

David Willocks, The Baker’s Table, Newport, KY
Known for a thoughtful, ingredient-driven tasting menu, Willocks highlights local farms, heritage grains, and whole-animal butchery, delivering a refined dining experience that changes monthly.

Other finalists in this category:

  • Joe Cash, Scoundrel, Greenville, SC
  • Mary Ellen Diaz, Alma Bea, Shepherdstown, WV
  • J. Trent Harris, Mujō, Atlanta, GA
  • Taylor Montgomery, Montgomery Sky Farm, Leicester, NC

Having three finalists across two categories is a clear sign of Cincinnati’s culinary artistry. From globally inspired dishes to deeply rooted flavors, this recognition shows that Cincy isn’t just keeping up with the national dining scene, it’s setting the pace. These chefs and restaurants highlight the city’s creativity, energy, and vibrant food culture, proving that Cincy is one of the best places in America to dine, explore, and be inspired.