Charlotte chefs, mixologist named James Beard Awards semifinalists

CHARLOTTE — Two Charlotte chefs and a mixologist have been named semifinalists for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards.

Chef Sam Diminich of Restaurant Constance and chef Chayil Johnson of Community Matters Café were recognized in the Best Chef: Southeast category. Additonally, mixologist Colleen Hughes with Supperland was nominated in the new Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service category.

Diminich, owner of Restaurant Constance, is known for supporting local farmers and the community through his Your Farms Your Table restaurant group.

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“This nomination is not a singular achievement but a reflection of the collective efforts of the exceptional team at Your Farms Your Table,” Diminich said. “When passionate individuals come together, we can truly push the boundaries of possibility within our industry and beyond. I am deeply humbled to be among this accomplished group of industry colleagues and friends and inspired by what we can achieve next.”

Johnson, who leads the kitchen at the nonprofit café that trains adults in recovery from addiction in food service skills, told Charlotte’s unpretentiouspalate.com that the nomination was unexpected.

“Even though it’s my name that they see, it’s so much of a team effort of everything, all the work that me and my team and the rest of management have put in this year, and I’m just really proud to show that with everything that we do,” Johnson said.

The James Beard Awards, considered one of the nation’s most prestigious honors, is set to celebrate its 35th anniversary this year. The restaurant and chef awards recognize excellence across all types of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual establishments. The awards also celebrate a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive.

Finalists will be announced on April 2. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago on June 16.

VIDEO: Restaurant Constance offers ‘serenity at the table’