Home / Arts and Entertainment / WA Chefs Shine in Prestigious James Beard Awards
WA Chefs Shine in Prestigious James Beard Awards
1 Apr
Summary
- Two Washington chefs are finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards.
- Johnny Courtney and Aaron Tekulve were nominated in the Northwest/Pacific category.
- Winners will be announced June 15 in Chicago.
Washington state is represented by two exceptional chefs at the 2026 James Beard Awards. Johnny Courtney of Atoma and Aaron Tekulve of Surrell have both been selected as finalists in the Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific category. This nomination places them among the nation's elite culinary talents.
Courtney, who opened Atoma in Wallingford, focuses on New American cuisine using seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients. Tekulve, with a long career in the industry, established Surrell, celebrating the diverse flavors of Washington's terroir. Both chefs lead restaurants known for their unique approaches to hospitality and cuisine.
The James Beard Foundation Awards are considered the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the United States. The winners for the 2026 awards ceremony will be announced on June 15 in Chicago, marking a significant moment for the nominated chefs and the broader culinary community.
