2025 James Beard Awards: 10 Indian American Chefs Named Semifinalists

Photo: James Beard Foundation

India-West News Desk

NEW YORK, NY – The James Beard Awards have unveiled their list of semifinalists for 2025, and a remarkable 10 Indian Americans in the culinary world have been recognized.

The semifinalists across various categories, underscoring the significant contributions of Indian-American chefs in reshaping dining experiences across the U.S.:

Outstanding Restaurant

1. Saffron Valley (owned by Lavanya Mahate) – Utah

Outstanding Chef

1. Niven Patel – Ghee Indian Kitchen, Miami
   Known for his innovative farm-to-table approach, Patel runs a two-acre farm that supplies fresh ingredients to his restaurants.

Emerging Chef

1. Bhavin Chhatwani – Tamasha Modern Indian, Raleigh, North Carolina
   Chhatwani brings Michelin-starred experience to his work.
2. Nikhil Naiker – NIMKI, Providence, Rhode Island.
3. His dishes blend his Fijian Indian heritage with local ingredients.

Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service

1. Anu Apte – Rob Roy, Seattle
   Apte focuses on mental well-being in hospitality adding a unique layer to her craft.

Best New Bar

1. Indienne (owned by Sujan Sarkar) – Chicago
   Sarkar already has a Michelin star and he brings a refined touch to the Indian tasting menu scene.

Best New Restaurant

1. Zeeshan Shah – Superkhana International, Chicago
2. Shah continues has an innovative approach to food, serving butter chicken calzones.
3. Nikhil Abuvala – Roux 30a, Santa Rosa, Florida
4. Abuvala’s work pushes boundaries, adding new dimensions to the American culinary experience.

The full list of nominees will be announced in April, with the winners to be honored in June at a ceremony in Chicago.

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