NEW: Providence’s Oberlin, Claudine Among 2026 James Beard Semifinalists for RI

NEW: Providence’s Oberlin, Claudine Among 2026 James Beard Semifinalists for RI

The James Beard Foundation on Wednesday announced its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists - and Rhode Island scored spots in multiple categories. 

In Providence, Oberlin is among 20 restaurants across the county nominated for “Outstanding Restaurant,” and Claudine, which recently opened on Weybosset Street,  was nominated for “Best New Restaurant.”

Derek Wagner, of Nicks on Broadway, has been nominated for Best Chef - Northeast. 

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Loma was nominated for Best New Bar, and Jesse Hedberg with Club Frills was nominated for “Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.”

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In Newport, Jasmine Watson with Audette has been nominated for “Emerging Chef,” and Kevin O’Donnell at Giusto has been nominated for “Best Chef Northeast.” 

Annie Parsi at Jayd Bun in South Kingstown is also nominated for “Best Chef - Northeast.” 

 

About Awards

Established in 1990 with the first awards given in 1991, the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards "honors excellence across all types of dining experiences, from fine-dining to casual establishments, while supporting and encouraging a more equitable and sustainable industry."

The Restaurant and Chef Awards is one of several recognition programs of the James Beard Awards.