San Antonio, Texas, January 24, 2026
San Antonio’s culinary scene has garnered significant recognition, with six local establishments nominated as semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard Awards. Notably, Mixtli leads as a standout contender in the Outstanding Restaurant category, showcasing the city’s diverse and innovative culinary talents. Additionally, the nominations reflect the creativity of rising stars like Anacacho Coffee & Cantina and celebrated chefs such as Tavel Bristol-Joseph. This acknowledgment emphasizes San Antonio’s emerging status as a culinary hub, fostering local economic growth and community engagement.
San Antonio, Texas – San Antonio’s culinary scene has captured national attention once again with six semifinalist nominations for the 2026 James Beard Awards. This recognition underscores the city’s emerging role as a vibrant hub for culinary innovation and excellence, driven by the passion and creativity of local chefs and restaurateurs.
The James Beard Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world,” serve to highlight exceptional talent in American cuisine. San Antonio’s diverse offerings reflect a blend of traditional flavors and modern techniques, showcasing the city’s commitment to culinary excellence and entrepreneurial spirit. As local economic growth continues to thrive, the achievements of these nominated establishments can be seen as a testament to the resilience of San Antonio’s small businesses.
Outstanding Restaurant
Mixtli, a progressive Mexican restaurant famed for its inventive tasting menu, stands out in the Outstanding Restaurant category. This nomination reflects Mixtli’s impressive journey, including being the first establishment from San Antonio to earn a Michelin distinction. This recognition not only elevates the restaurant but also contributes positively to the city’s image on a national level, confirming San Antonio’s relevance in the food landscape.
Best New Restaurant
In the Best New Restaurant category, Anacacho Coffee & Cantina, led by Chef Leo Davila, has quickly made a name for itself since opening in May 2025. Its rapid rise in popularity highlights the importance of supporting new ventures, which enrich San Antonio’s culinary fabric. The establishment’s innovative approach to combining classic and contemporary flavors has resonated well with locals and visitors alike.
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
Tavel Bristol-Joseph from Nicosi has garnered his first nomination for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, celebrating his immersive and creative dessert experiences. Previously recognized for his achievements in Austin, this nomination reaffirms Bristol-Joseph’s talent and commitment to elevating San Antonio’s dessert scene.
Best Chef: Texas
Three talented chefs from San Antonio have been nominated in the Best Chef: Texas category, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary talents:
- Francisco Estrada and Lizzeth Martinez of Naco Mexican, who transitioned from a food truck to a successful brick-and-mortar operation near the Pearl in 2023.
- Sue Kim of The Magpie, celebrated for her inventive Korean-inspired dishes that continue to intrigue patrons.
- Emil Oliva of Leche de Tigre, a Peruvian restaurant recognized for its high standards, achieving “recommended” status from the Michelin Guide in 2024 and 2025.
Outstanding Chef
The pair of David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes from Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin have been nominated for the Outstanding Chef category. Their contributions to barbecue are noteworthy, and this recognition underscores the growing appreciation for Texas barbecue beyond the local community, amplifying its standing on a national scale.
The forthcoming James Beard Awards celebrate not only culinary talent but also the entrepreneurial innovation within San Antonio. With nominations spanning various categories, the diversity and quality present in the local dining scene foster community engagement and economic success. The James Beard Foundation will announce the final nominees on March 31, with winners revealed at the awards ceremony in Chicago on June 15.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the James Beard Awards?
- The James Beard Awards are prestigious honors recognizing excellence in American cuisine, awarded annually by the James Beard Foundation.
- How many San Antonio establishments received nominations?
- Six San Antonio chefs and restaurants have been named semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards.
- When will the final nominees and winners be announced?
- The final nominees will be announced on March 31, and the winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony in Chicago on June 15, 2026.
| Category | Nominee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Outstanding Restaurant | Mixtli | Progressive Mexican restaurant known for its innovative tasting menu; first San Antonio establishment to receive a Michelin distinction. |
| Best New Restaurant | Anacacho Coffee & Cantina | Helmed by Chef Leo Davila; opened in May 2025; quickly become a notable addition to San Antonio’s dining scene. |
| Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker | Tavel Bristol-Joseph | Of Nicosi; first nomination for his work in San Antonio; previously recognized in Austin. |
| Best Chef: Texas | Francisco Estrada and Lizzeth Martinez | Of Naco Mexican; transitioned from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar operation near Pearl in 2023. |
| Best Chef: Texas | Sue Kim | Of The Magpie; known for inventive Korean-inspired dishes. |
| Best Chef: Texas | Emil Oliva | Of Leche de Tigre; Peruvian restaurant; received “recommended” status from the Michelin Guide in 2024 and 2025. |
| Outstanding Chef | David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes | Of Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin; recognized for contributions to the barbecue scene. |
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