2026 James Beard Restaurant, Chef Award finalists announced. See list

The James Beard Foundation has announced the finalists for its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards, with several Asheville-area chefs and restaurants making the cut. Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani of Chai Pani Restaurant Group, and Taylor Montgomery of Montgomery Sky Farm, are among the finalists and will attend the awards ceremony on June 15 in Chicago.
The James Beard Foundation announced its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards finalists. Asheville-area chefs and restaurants are among the nominees. Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani of Chai Pani Restaurant Group are finalists for Outstanding Restaurateur. Taylor Montgomery of Montgomery Sky Farm is a finalist for Best Chef: Southeast. The awards ceremony will be held on June 15 in Chicago. The James Beard Awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts.
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