GA Restaurant Nominated For 2025 James Beard Award

GEORGIA — The culinary scene in Georgia is well-represented in the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards nominees announced Wednesday by the James Beard Foundation.

This year is an important milestone for the James Beard Foundation: It’s the 35th anniversary of the awards, considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors. Awards will be presented in 25 categories this year with an expanded focus on cocktail and beverage service.

The sole restaurant representing Georgia is Aria in Buckhead. The East Paces Ferry Road eatery is nominated for Outstanding Hospitality for the second consecutive year.

Reminiscent of modern American cuisine, chickpea fritters are among the menu items at Aria. Black truffle burrata, crisped duck confit with Louisiana-style dirty rice, herb-crusted lemon sole and spiced bourbon glazed chilean salmon are also on the menu.

The James Beard Awards, first presented in 1991, recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries and are often regarded as the “Oscars of culinary arts.” They recognize a range of experiences, from fine-dining restaurants to casual gems, in 22 categories.

Winners will be announced Monday, June 16, in a ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.