Visit Pensacola Launches James Beard Awards Hub for Local Chefs and Restaurants

Visit Pensacola is inviting the community to help put the spotlight on local culinary talent through the 2027 James Beard Awards, one of the nation's most prestigious honors for chefs and restaurants.

The tourism organization has launched a dedicated informational hub featuring resources about the awards and profiles of participating local chefs, restaurants and hospitality professionals. The hub is designed to help residents, visitors and industry professionals prepare informed recommendations during the awards recommendation period, which is currently underway. "Pensacola has an incredible culinary community, and the talent, creativity and passion behind our local restaurants and bars deserve to be recognized," said Nicole Stacey, Vice President of Visit Pensacola.

The James Beard Foundation's Restaurant and Chef Awards recognize excellence in categories including Outstanding Chef, Outstanding Restaurant, Emerging Chef, Best New Restaurant, Outstanding Hospitality and Outstanding Bar. Community members can nominate chefs and establishments that have made a lasting impression through exceptional dining experiences, innovative cuisine or meaningful community contributions.

Local culinary professionals and establishments interested in being featured on the hub are encouraged to submit their information. Recommendations for the 2027 James Beard Awards must be submitted by November 30, 2026, through jamesbeard.org. The nomination process is free and open to the public. More information is available at visitpensacola.com/james-beard-awards.