The 2026 James Beard Awards finalist list is out, and five chefs and/or restaurants will be going to Chicago for the award ceremony this summer. These chefs and professionals show how much the state’s food scene is growing, and while all semifinalists deserve the prize, we will be rooting for this group.
Best Chef: Mountain
Johnny Curiel of Fonda Fina Hospitality
Johnny Curiel, the chef behind award-winning restaurants such as Alma Fonda Fina and Mezcaleria Alma, continues to wow us. Good luck chef, you deserve another feather in the cap. fondafinahospitality.com
Penelope Wong of Yuan Wonton
Chef and owner Penelope Wong of Yuan Wonton is a finalist for the second year in a row. She’s known for turning simple street food like dumplings into a high-quality and freshly-made treat, which keeps customers coming back. 2878 Fairfax St., Denver, no website
Outstanding Chef: Josh Niernberg of Bin 707 Foodbar
Josh Niernberg from Bin 707 Foodbar has now been nominated five times. His success comes from consistently great food and his focus on using fresh, local ingredients, which helps support local farmers and keeps his menu high quality. 400 Main St., Grand Junction, bin707.com
Outstanding Professional Beverage Service: Ryan Fletter of Barolo Grill
Ryan Fletter, owner of Barolo Grill, has a deep knowledge of wine and service, and it shows. Not only does he know wine, but every year brings staff to Italy to eat, drink, and learn. 3030 E. 6th Ave., Denver, barologrilldenver.com
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: McLain Hedges & Mary Allison Wright of Yacht Club
The owners of Yacht Club once again rise to the top thanks to the creative cocktail program at their Five Points bar. With a sleek nautical vibe, flawless execution of every drink, and gourmet hotdogs, it’s easy to see why the owners are James Beard material. In fact, they were also nominated last year. 3701 N. Williams St., Denver, yachtclubbar.com
