2026 James Beard Awards: Six Alabama Chefs Earn Semifinalist Slots
In a notable announcement, six chefs from Alabama and one Birmingham restaurant have secured semifinalist positions for the 2026 James Beard Awards. This prestigious event, organized by the James Beard Foundation, recognizes excellence in the culinary arts.
Alabama Semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards
The following are the semifinalists from Alabama:
- Rob McDaniel – Bayonet, Birmingham: Outstanding Chef
- Kristen Hall – La Fête, Birmingham: Best Chef (South)
- Geri-Martha O’Hara and Ryan O’Hara – Pizza Grace, Birmingham: Best Chef (South)
- Jim Smith – The Hummingbird Way, Mobile: Best Chef (South)
- Eric Bennett – Continental Drift, Birmingham: Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
- Bottega, Birmingham: Outstanding Hospitality
A Look at the Chefs and their Restaurants
Rob McDaniel, a prominent chef, is a six-time James Beard semifinalist. His restaurant, Bayonet, opened in 2025 and has quickly earned accolades, including a Michelin “Bib Gourmand” designation and recognition from the New York Times as one of the 50 best restaurants in America.
Kristen Hall co-founded La Fête with Chef Victor King in 2022. This Parisian-inspired wine bar has also captured a Michelin “Bib Gourmand” award in Alabama. Hall is additionally known for her bakery, Bandit Patisserie, featuring seasonal pastries.
The O’Hara couple, Geri-Martha and Ryan, acquired Pizza Grace in 2025, a restaurant celebrated in the 2023 James Beard Awards. They are also the founders of Big Spoon Creamery, enhancing Birmingham’s culinary scene.
Eric Bennett, a skilled bartender, launched Continental Drift in 2021. This establishment follows his series of successful pop-up events and features innovative cocktails. He made an appearance on *Jimmy Kimmel Live* in 2020, showcasing his cocktail expertise.
Jim Smith, the executive chef at The Hummingbird Way, has a culinary background as a “Top Chef” competitor and a winner of the Great American Seafood Cook-Off. His restaurant specializes in upscale seafood dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Bottega, a long-standing establishment since 1988, is directed by Chef Frank Stitt, a four-time James Beard Award nominee. The restaurant offers Southern-Italian cuisine and received a Michelin Outstanding Service Award, along with being recognized as one of the “20 Friendliest Places In The South” by *Southern Living*.
The Importance of the James Beard Awards
The James Beard Awards are known for honoring exceptional talent in the culinary field. They promote sustainability, equity, and a thriving culture in the food industry. Since their inception in 1990, these awards have celebrated excellence across various dining experiences.
Previous Alabama winners include:
- Adam Evans – Automatic Seafood and Oysters, Best Chef: South, 2022
- Highlands Bar and Grill, Outstanding Restaurant, 2018
- Dolester Miles – Outstanding Pastry Chef, 2018
- Chris Hastings – Best Chef: South, 2012
- The Bright Star, America’s Classic, 2010
- Frank Stitt – Best Chef: Southeast, 2001
The 2026 James Beard Awards Ceremony is scheduled to take place in Chicago from June 13-15, 2026. For more information on the semifinalists, stay tuned to El-Balad.
