Here Are Phoenix, Arizona’s 2025 James Beard Award Semifinalists | Eater Phoenix

"Lawrence “LT” Smith, chef of a new-school Mexican restaurant in Phoenix, was named a 2025 James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist in the Emerging Chef category — an award that "recognizes a chef the committee feels will make significant impacts in the community for years to come." The semifinalist nod places the restaurant among the state's 14 Beard semifinalists noted in the announcement; the James Beard Foundation Awards are "considered one of the most prestigious honors to receive in the restaurant and beverage industry." Finalists will be announced on Wednesday, April 2, followed by an awards ceremony to reveal winners on Monday, June 16, 2024." - Nicole Adlman