2026 James Beard Awards; Milwaukee restaurant, Wauwatosa chef named finalists
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 14: George McCalman poses with his award during the 2025 James Beard Media Awards on June 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for James Beard Foundation)
MILWAUKEE - A Milwaukee restaurant and Wauwatosa chef have been named as 2026 James Beard Award finalists.
Finalists for James Beard Award
What we know:
In the category for Best New Restaurant, 1033 Omakase, located in Milwaukee's Walker's Point neighborhood (1033 S. 1st Street), was named a finalist. Their website said 1033 Omakase's "mission is to honor the tradition of Japanese omakase by creating an unforgettable dining journey that harmonizes simplicity, elegance, and the finest seasonal ingredients."
One chef in the Milwaukee area has been named a finalist for Best Chef in the Midwest region. That chef is Zak Baker of Ca’Lucchenzo in Wauwatosa (6030 W. North Avenue).
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Other James Beard finalists in Wisconsin
- Outstanding Bakery: Cultured, Sister Bay
- Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Sway Brewing & Blending, Baileys Harbor
- Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service: Hastings Cameron, Imaginary Factory, Madison
What's next:
James Beard Award winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
2026 James Beard Awards; Milwaukee restaurant, bar, chefs named semifinalists
A Milwaukee restaurant, bar and several chefs have been named as 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists.
The Source: Information in this post was provided by the James Beard Awards.