When the 2025 semifinalists were announced, some chefs were fixing their ovens or shopping. Soon, their days changed.

Fifteen Arizona 15 chefs and restaurants are semifinalists for 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards, including Best Chef — Southwest and Best New Bar.

The James Beard Awards revealed their 2025 semifinalists on Wednesday, with over a dozen Arizona chefs, bars and restaurants in the running. Why it matters: The Beards are among the highest honors in hospitality and winning can catapult a chef's career or restaurant's reputation to new heights.

Little Rituals, Chilte and Lom Wong are among the semifinalists for 2025 James Beard Awards, including Best Chef — Southwest and Best New Bar.

The James Beard Awards announced its 2025 semifinalists Wednesday morning, with the Seattle area getting 16 spots for candidates in the Oscars of the restaurant world.

The semi-finalist list includes some famous names like Yia Vang, Diane Moua and Gavin Kaysen. Abraham Gessesse may not be a household name, but he is the chef owner of the St. Paul restaurant Hyacinth and he’s been nominated in the Best Chef Midwest category for the first time.

A chef who trained in Napa Valley, New York and London, RJ Yoakum is nominated for a Best Emerging James Beard Aware, though he’s already an executive chef.

Impress your special someone this Valentine’s Day! Discover Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice's best romantic restaurants for unforgettable date nights.

In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, there’s a culinary treasure that’s been serving up slices of heaven for decades. Tucked away in a modest strip mall, the Fry Bread House might not look like much from the outside, but don’t let appearances fool you. This unassuming eatery is home to what many locals swear is the best fry bread in America.

The Fry Bread House has been a Phoenix institution since 1992, serving up authentic Native American cuisine with a side of warm hospitality. It’s the kind of place where the aroma of freshly made fry bread greets you at the door like an old friend.

The James Beard Foundation unveiled its full list of James Beard Awards semifinalists today, Jan. 22, with more than a dozen Los Angeles County chefs and restaurants receiving recognition.