The James Beard Foundation just dropped its list of 2025 semifinalists, and let’s just say Minnesota is stealing the spotlight with a whopping 11 nominations!! Six of those  come from national categories, putting Minnesota on the radar in a big way.

Even more impressive? Five local chefs snagged spots in the Best Chef: Midwest category - more than any other state eligible in the region. It’s a huge win and a testament to the incredible talent here in the North Star State.

For those unfamiliar, the James Beard Awards are basically the Oscars of the food world. Being nominated isn’t just a nice little ego boost, it’s a massive career milestone that that cements a restaurant or chef as one of the absolute best in the biz!

Here are this year's Minnesota semifinalists:

Outstanding Restaurant: Spoon and Stable in Minneapolis

Outstanding Hospitality: Mucci's Italian in St. Paul

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Outstanding Chef: Ann Ahmed for Khâluna in Minneapolis

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Bar Brava in Minneapolis

Best New Restaurant: Vinai in Minneapolis

Best New Restaurant: Bûcheron in Minneapolis

Also See: This Minnesota Restaurant is Now The Best Must-Try Spot

Five chefs have been recognized in the Best Chef: Midwest category, which was won last year by Christina Nguyen of Minneapolis' Hai Hai. This year's nominees include:

Shigeyuki Furukawa for Kado no Mise

Abraham Gessesse for Hyacinth

Mateo Mackbee for Krewe

Diane Moua for Diane's Place

Karyn Tomlinson for Myriel

The competition gets even tighter this April when the finalists are revealed, with winners set to be crowned on June 9 in Chicago. Will Minnesota bring home some gold? With this level of talent, we’re feeling pretty confident.

Listen to Curt St. John and Samm Adams in the Morning
weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. on Quick Country 96.5

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Gallery Credit: Carly Ross

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