Western North Carolina’s culinary scene has achieved national recognition once again as three of its establishments have been named among the 2026 semi-finalists for the prestigious James Beard Foundation awards, which honor culinary excellence across the U.S.
Meherwan and Molly Irani, the dynamic duo behind the Chai Pani Restaurant Group, have been nominated in the Outstanding Restaurateur category. This accolade celebrates restaurateurs who utilize their businesses as community-building platforms while showcasing entrepreneurial creativity and maintaining integrity in their operations.
Chai Pani, known for its Indian street food, has an established presence with its Asheville location, which previously clinched the James Beard award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2022. The group has also expanded to Decatur, Ga., and Washington, D.C.
Recognized in the Best Chef in the Southeast category are chefs Matt Dawes of Asheville’s Bull and Beggar and Taylor Montgomery of Montgomery Sky Farm located in Leicester. This category honors chefs who exhibit exceptional culinary skills and leadership, and who are dedicated to fostering a sustainable work culture within their regions.
The Southeast region encompasses North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Bull and Beggar, situated in Asheville’s River Arts District, offers “European-inspired Appalachian cuisine” and has made a significant comeback after being severely affected by Hurricane Helene last January.
Montgomery Sky Farm, a sprawling 50-acre working farm, is celebrated for its various public and private events and tours.
The finalists for this year’s James Beard awards will be revealed on March 31. To view the complete list of semi-finalists, click here.
