Aria and Mujō’s Chef Harris Named James Beard Finalists

In March, the 2026 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award nominee finalists

for 2026 were announced. The James Beard Awards represent the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the US. Since their inception in 1990, the Restaurant and Chef Awards have made icons out of the nation’s top restaurant and bar professionals.

The winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 15, 2026 in Chicago.

Below are Georgia’s 2026 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award nominee finalists for 2026.

Outstanding Hospitality: Aria, Atlanta, GA

Best Chef: Southeast: J. Trent Harris, Mujō, Atlanta, GA

Though they did not make the finalist list, just reaching the semifinals is a great honor. Below are Georgia’s James Beard Award semifinalists for 2026 that were announced back in January.

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
Claudia Martinez, Bar ANA, Atlanta, GA

Best New Bar
Lucky Star, Atlanta, GA
Madeira Park, Atlanta, GA

Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service
Taurean Philpott, Avize, Atlanta, GA

Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
Miles Macquarrie, Kimball House, Atlanta, GA

Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)
Carlo Gan and Mia Orino, Kamayan ATL, Doraville, GA
Todd Schafer, Abel Brown, Augusta, GA
Freddy Money, Atlas, Atlanta, GA