The James Beard Foundation (JBF) today announced its 2025 James Beard Award semifinalists which included two local nods: James London’s Chubby Fish in the category of outstanding restaurant; and Femi Oyediran and Miles White of Graft Wine Shop as outstanding professionals in beverage service. The official James Beard Award nominees will be announced April 2 and winners will be announced June 16
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards, the annual awards that “recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive,” according to the foundation.
This year’s awards have expanded with a focus on beverages including three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.
More fanfare for fan favorites
Chubby Fish is one of Charleston’s most talked-about restaurants, known for its dock-to-table fare and long lines (this spot doesn’t take reservations, folks) ahead of opening hours. The Charleston City Paper chatted with London last year about the restaurant’s popular “caviar sammich.”
“We try not to take ourselves too seriously,” London said. “We wanted a casual and approachable vehicle for an ingredient that is oftentimes served with way too much pomp and circumstance. We also serve it at cost so that people can indulge without having to lose a paycheck. We do it all for the people.”
Oyediran and White are, seemingly, everywhere, and they brought their vino expertise to Charleston’s newest food festival, the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, last fall.
While this isn’t the first time for London to be nominated for a Beard award — or for Graft to receive national accolades— the awards do come during a busy season for both businesses.
London recently opened The Sea Horse, a cocktail bar near Chubby Fish that specializes in cocktails, of course, as well as a small menu of rotating food items.
Oyediran and White, meanwhile, are currently in the process of opening Tutti Pizza, a new pizza joint opening soon at 700 King Street (next door to Graft).
Learn more at jamesbeard.org.
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