The James Beard Foundation has unveiled its 2025 semifinalists recently, highlighting exceptional culinary talent across Virginia and Washington, D.C. Often dubbed the “Oscars” of the food world, these awards recognize outstanding contributions to America’s culinary scene.

Outstanding Restaurateur

• Scott Drewno and Danny Lee, The Fried Rice Collective, Washington, DC

Outstanding Chef

• Amy Brandwein, Centrolina, DC

Outstanding Restaurant

• The Dabney, DC

Emerging Chef

• Paolo Dungca, Hiraya, DC

Best New Restaurant

• Maude & the Bear, Staunton, VA
• Mita, DC

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker

• Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit, DC

Outstanding Hospitality

• Tail Up Goat, DC

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

• Charleston, Baltimore, MD

Best New Bar

• Bar Cana, DC

Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service

• Andra “AJ” Johnson, Serenata, DC

Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (DC, DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA)

• Matt Adler, Cucina Morini, DC
• Henji Cheung, Queen’s English, DC
• Matt Conroy and Isabel Coss, Pascual, DC
• Carlos Delgado, Causa and Amazonia, DC
• Ruben Garcia, Casa Teresa, DC
• Fernando Gonzalez, 2Fifty Barbeque,  DC
• Cagla Onal Urel,  Green Almond Pantry, DC
• Jarad Slipp, Tremolo, Middleburg, VA

The finalists will be announced on April 2, and the winners will be revealed during a gala in Chicago on June 16. These nominations underscore the dynamic and diverse culinary landscape of Virginia and Washington, D.C., celebrating both established institutions and emerging talents.

The Inn
Middle & Main Streets
Washington, VA 22747
540-675-3800

American | $$$$

The culinary world continues to celebrate the unmatched brilliance of The Inn at Little Washington, which has retained its prestigious three Michelin stars for the seventh consecutive year. This recognition solidifies the Inn’s position as the pinnacle of fine dining in the Washington, D.C., area and among the elite few in the United States.

A Legacy of Excellence
Nestled in the quaint Virginia town of Washington, just 60 miles west of the nation’s capital, the Inn owes its legendary status to the relentless dedication of chef and proprietor Patrick O’Connell. Over the past 46 years, O’Connell has cultivated an environment where culinary artistry meets theatrical elegance, ensuring that every guest’s experience is as memorable as it is delicious.

In a statement, O’Connell expressed pride in this enduring recognition, noting how each accolade serves as fuel for innovation and a testament to the Inn’s commitment to excellence. As of 2024, The Inn at Little Washington remains the only three-star Michelin establishment in the D.C. region, joining a prestigious list of just 14 such venues in the United States.

The Art of Hospitality
The accolades are not merely for the cuisine. Renowned chef and author Jacques Pépin, a long-time friend of O’Connell, lauds the Inn for its warmth and hospitality, describing it as “a great place to go over and over again.” This balance between sophistication and approachability has made it an international destination for gourmands and travelers alike.

Chef Thomas Keller, a Michelin-starred luminary in his own right, praised O’Connell as a visionary, noting his unwavering commitment to a singular establishment. “Patrick transformed The Inn at Little Washington into what it is today—a masterpiece,” Keller said, highlighting O’Connell’s dedication to both culinary and experiential perfection.

Creating Dreams, One Plate at a Time
The Inn’s attention to detail extends far beyond the kitchen. From the meticulously curated ambiance to its world-class service, every aspect of the guest experience reflects O’Connell’s pursuit of perfection. Chef Eric Ripert, another three-star Michelin chef, described O’Connell as “relentless, passionate, and unstoppable,” marveling at his ability to bring dreams to life for his guests while living his own dream.

A Destination Worth the Journey
For food enthusiasts, a visit to The Inn at Little Washington is a rite of passage. Its reputation for excellence, paired with its scenic location in rural Virginia, ensures it remains a beacon for culinary pilgrims worldwide. With its unwavering commitment to innovation and hospitality, The Inn continues to set benchmarks for others in the industry to aspire to.

In retaining its three Michelin stars, The Inn at Little Washington reaffirms its place not only as a regional treasure but also as a global icon in fine dining. Chef O’Connell’s passion and dedication ensure that every guest who steps through its doors embarks on an unforgettable journey, one that blends artistry, hospitality, and a touch of magic.

Alias Farm to Table
7150 Farm Station Road
Warrenton, Virginia 20187
(540) 422-0340
https://aliasvinthill.com/

American | $$$$

Service at Alias is first class.

And just like that, two hours later it was over. A feast that will take you on a flavor rollercoaster. Try to get a reservation as soon as possible. You won’t be disappointed. You’ll leave wondering where is Chef Stephen’s  Michelin star.

104 S Royal Ave.
Front Royal, VA 22630
540-749-0501
https://melaniasgourmet.com/
Open: Thursday, Friday, Saturday 9 AM- 3 PM

$$ | Pastry

Melania’s Gourmet is located in a beautifully restored brick home on one of the main streets of Front Royal, Virginia. Situated at the corner of Jackson Street and South Royal Avenue, the café offers some of the finest pastries in the state.

Pastry Chef Melania Castegnaro and her husband, Ryland Greenhouse, opened Melania’s Gourmet in September 2023. Melania grew up in Costa Rica, where she learned the art of baking from her grandmother, sparking her lifelong passion for pastry. She holds culinary degrees from the Culinary Arts Institute of Washington and the Escuela de Pasteleria del Gremio in Barcelona, Spain. Ryland, who grew up in Front Royal, believed the town would be the perfect location to showcase Melania’s exceptional baking skills and open a café. Melania’s ten years of experience as an Executive Pastry Chef is evident in the quality and flavor of every pastry served at the café.

The décor is super cozy, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

You can find Melania in the kitchen.

There is an amazing array of chocolates and pastries.

The chocolate is rich and silky smooth.

The cookies are wonderful. This was the best peanut butter cookie I have had.

The fresh flowers are a nice touch.

Melania’s Gourmet is a welcome addition to the Front Royal dining scene. It offers world-class pastries made from the finest ingredients. The café’s menu features a delectable selection of pies, cakes, and a mouthwatering Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit for breakfast.

Honoring Melania’s Costa Rican heritage, the café serves rich and flavorful Costa Rican coffee, which pairs perfectly with exceptional pastries. Every bite of Melania’s creations showcases her exceptional baking skills and attention to detail, honed over her ten years of experience as an Executive Pastry Chef.

If you find yourself in the Shenandoah Valley, Melania’s Gourmet is a must-visit destination for picking up delectable treats. However, keep in mind that the café is only open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and the selection can dwindle later in the day, so it’s best to visit early.

Melania and her husband Ryland have created a real gem that shouldn’t be missed. It is busy on Saturdays, so I can’t imagine what it will be like during the peak leaf season in the fall when Front Royal is overrun with visitors. The combination of Melania’s world-class pastries and the cozy, inviting atmosphere of the restored brick home make Melania’s Gourmet a true delight for the senses.