The James Beard Foundation announced its official 2026 nominees on Tuesday, and two Atlanta names made the cut.
J. Trent Harris of Midtown restaurant Mujo is nominated in the Best Chef: Southeast category. The restaurant has earned acclaim for its innovative approach blending Southern cuisine with Japanese influences. Aria, the wine-focused restaurant that was also a finalist last year, returns in the Outstanding Hospitality category.
Eight Atlanta restaurants and bars were originally under consideration when the semifinalist list dropped in January. The winners will be announced at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on June 15.
The James Beard Awards are among the restaurant industry's most coveted honors. The recognition continues Atlanta's steady rise as a serious food city, with 63 Atlanta and metro Atlanta restaurants currently featured in the Michelin Guide to the American South.
