A chef who trained in Napa Valley, New York and London, RJ Yoakum is nominated for a Best Emerging James Beard Aware, though he’s already an executive chef.

The James Beard Awards announced its 2025 semifinalists Wednesday morning, with the Seattle area getting 16 spots for candidates in the Oscars of the restaurant world.

The 2025 James Beard Foundation Award semifinalists have been announced, and one Dutchess County chef has made the list. The James Beard Awards recognize extraordinary talent within the culinary and food media industries, identifying the best restaurants and chefs in the country.