San Antonio’s culinary scene continues to gain national recognition, with seven restaurants and chefs named semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards on Wednesday. This marks the third time in five years that Mixtli, a progressive Mexican restaurant in Southtown, has been recognized in the prestigious Outstanding Restaurant category.
Local Restaurants Shine on National Stage
The James Beard Awards are widely considered the highest honor in the American culinary industry, recognizing “exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts.” Mixtli is leading the charge for San Antonio, and is the only Texas restaurant nominated in the Outstanding Restaurant category. Chef and co-founder Diego Galicia expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s a wonderful feeling.”
Beyond Mixtli, San Antonio earned nominations in two other national categories. Pitmasters David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes of Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin were named semifinalists for Outstanding Chef. Additionally, Oliva, a self-taught chef who launched his Peruvian cevicheria in Southtown less than two years ago, was previously named a Best Chef: Texas finalist in 2025.
Strong Showing in Texas Category
San Antonio also boasts three semifinalists in the regional Best Chef: Texas category. The city produced six semifinalists for Best Chef: Texas in 2025 – the most of any city in the state – though none ultimately won an award. Mixtli was a finalist for Outstanding Hospitality last year but did not receive the honor.
Chef Galicia remains optimistic, hoping to break through in 2026. “It’s awesome to be nominated again,” he said. “And we’re happy for our friends from Leche de Tigre and The Magpie and others to be nominated. It’s really cool. As a city, we truly deserve it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the James Beard Awards?
The James Beard Awards “recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts” and are often referred to as the “Oscars of the food industry.”
Which San Antonio restaurants were nominated?
Mixtli, Burnt Bean Co., and Oliva were nominated in national categories. Three additional San Antonio chefs were nominated in the regional Best Chef: Texas category.
Has a San Antonio chef ever won a James Beard Award?
No, no one from San Antonio has won a James Beard Award since the foundation began recognizing culinary achievement 35 years ago.
What impact could continued recognition have on San Antonio’s culinary scene?
