Utah shut out again at 2026 James Beard Awards

No Utah finalists emerged as winners at Monday's James Beard Awards in Chicago.

The big picture: While Utah chefs and restaurants have earned a growing number of nominations in recent years, the state has yet to take home the coveted award.

Zoom in: Felt Bar & Eatery's Travis Herbert and Urban Hill's Nick Zocco were finalists for best chef in the Mountain region, which includes Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, in March.

This award cycle marked Herbert's first nomination since joining Felt, which opened in 2024.

It was Zocco's third nomination.

Instead, Yuan Wonton owner and chef Penelope Wong from Denver took home the honor.

Flashback: 8 Utah chefs and restaurants were named semifinalists in January, including:

The Pearl's Tommy Nguyen for best chef

Japanese-Italian fusion concept Junah for best new restaurant

Post Office Place for outstanding bar