The 2026 James Beard awards will be announced June 15 in Chicago.
SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio is once again getting national recognition from the James Beard Foundation, with one restaurant and one chef named finalists for the annual awards.
Mixtli, a Michelin-starred restaurant, was named a finalist for Outstanding Restaurant, a recognition it also received in 2024. The restaurant offers an ever-changing regional Mexican tasting menu with optional drink pairings.
The restaurant shared a message on social media following the announcement.
“We’re at a loss for words… and at the same time, filled with so many feelings,” the post begins.
“More than anything, we are deeply grateful for your trust, for your presence, and for choosing to share your most meaningful evenings with us. Night after night, you allow us to take your hand and walk you through the stories, flavors, and history of Mexico. That is something we never take lightly.”
The post continued, “To be recognized on a national stage is something we once only dreamed of… This moment does not belong to us alone, it belongs to you. It exists because of you.”
Meanwhile, Nicosi chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph was named a finalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker.
With just 20 seats wrapped around the kitchen, Nicosi offers an up-close dining experience centered on an eight-course, pre-set menu that explores bold and unexpected flavors.
“It’s an honor to be nominated as a finalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef for Nicosi,” Bristol-Joseph said in a statement. “I’m proud of the 17-year-old version of myself who pushed through the noise and trusted there was a bigger purpose waiting.”
The 2026 James Beard awards will be announced June 15 in Chicago.
The full list of nominees can be found here.
