Chicago’s culinary scene has been recognized as one of the best in the world, with several new winners announced at the 35th annual James Beard Awards. Kumiko, a Japanese-influenced bar in the West Loop, won Outstanding Bar honors for its owner Julia Momosé, who also praised the importance of immigrants in the hospitality industry.
Momosé’s acceptance speech highlighted the struggles faced by immigrant workers and the need for inclusivity and diversity in the industry. The award marks a significant milestone for Kumiko, which opened with co-owner Noah Sandoval and his wife Cara in 2018.
Sandoval won the Best Chef: Great Lakes category, beating fellow Chicago chefs to take home the top prize. He was unable to attend the ceremony due to its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, where ICE operations are common. Despite his absence, Sandoval expressed strong sentiments against immigration restrictions during his brief speech.
Other winners included Oriole, Sandoval’s tasting-menu restaurant in the West Loop, and several prominent chefs who urged diversity and inclusion during their presentations. The event also featured a tribute to Chicago’s culinary scene, with Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson praising the city’s food industry as a vital part of its identity.
The James Beard Awards, known as the “Oscars of the food world,” are presented annually in June to recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries. This year’s ceremony marked an important milestone for Chicago, solidifying its reputation as a hub for fine and casual dining.
Source: https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/16/kumiko-bar-chef-noah-sandoval-of-oriole-win-2025-james-beard-awards