2 Westport Chefs Named Semifinalists In 2025 James Beard Awards

WESTPORT, CT — A pair of Westport chefs have been named semifinalists in the 2025 James Beard Awards, the James Beard Foundation announced.

Michelle Greenfield of Allium Eatery, and Brian Lewis of The Cottage, were both named in the Best Chef in the Northeast category. A total of 20 chefs from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island are vying in the category.

The prestigious culinary awards program, often referred to as the "Oscars of food," is celebrating its 35th anniversary. It honors restaurants and chefs who create exceptional food, food media content, and better food systems.

Additionally, the awards also recognize a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.

Nominees will be announced on April 2, and winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

For more information on the 2025 James Beard Awards semifinalists, click here.

— Chris Rhatigan, Patch Staff, contributed to this report.