The 2026 James Beard Foundation Awards recognized multiple Los Angeles-area restaurants and chefs, with Southern California dominating the ceremony in Chicago. - Gilberto Cetina (Holbox) and Niki Nakayama (n/naka) were nominated for Outstanding Chef.
- Fátima Juárez (Komal) was named Emerging Chef, and Ki in Los Angeles won Best New Restaurant. - Jack Benchakul (endorffeine coffee bar) was honored as Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service.
- Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle (Little Fish Melrose Hill) were included in the TasteTwenty chefs list for 2026-27. The awards, now in their 36th year, also evaluate nominees on community impact, sustainability, and equity within the industry.