12 Arizona chefs and restaurants named James Beard semifinalists Article originally posted on HERE on January 23, 2026 A dozen Arizona chefs, mixologists and restaurants are James Beard Award semifnalists. Why it matters: The coveted culinary honor celebrates the best in the industry and a win often takes chefs and their restaurants to new heights. Zoom in: This year’s Arizona nominees include some long-timers and a few fresh faces. Outstanding chef: Charleen Badman, FnB (Scottsdale) Best new restaurant: Indibar (Scottsdale) Outstanding bar: Highball (Phoenix) Outstanding professional in beverage service: Zac Adcox, Kid Sister (Phoenix) Outstanding professional in cocktail service: Ross Simon, Little Rituals (Phoenix) Best chef: Southwest Roberto Centeno, Espiritu (Mesa) TJ Culp, Progress (Phoenix) Rochelle Daniels, Atria (Flagstaff) Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin, Tacos Chiwas (Phoenix) Scott Holmes, Little Miss BBQ (Phoenix) Kyle Kent, Chula Seafood (Phoenix) Claudia Vindiola, La Frida Mexican Grill & Seafood (Tucson) What’s next: Finalists will be announced on March 31 and winners will be celebrated at a Chicago ceremony on June 15.