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Massachusetts Left Out of 2026 James Beard Awards

4/1/2026

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Story summary
  • The James Beard Foundation's 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards have no Massachusetts nominees, despite ten state semifinalists.
  • Critics argue the judging process lacks local representation, which may have influenced the outcome.
  • The awards, intended to reflect regional talent, now appear incomplete without Massachusetts.
  • The situation prompts reflection on the awards' evolving mission toward diversity and inclusion in the culinary industry.