The culinary landscape of Orlando has reached new heights as two local gastronomy giants, Ômo by Jônt and Good Salt Restaurant Group's Jason and Sue Chin, have been named finalists in the prestigious 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards. Per an announcement yesterday, Ômo by Jônt is contending with nine other establishments for the Best New Restaurant accolade. The French-Japanese eatery, recently lauded as the Best New Restaurant by the Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards, is led by the Michelin-honored Chef Ryan Ratino. In a statement detailed by Orlando Sentinel, Ratino said, "What an amazing full circle moment for myself and the Ômo by Jônt and Hive Hospitality teams."
Meanwhile, Jason and Sue Chin are set to contend fiercely in the Outstanding Restaurateur category. This marks their second recognition by the foundation, following a semifinalist nod in 2022. When the news broke, Jason Chin was in the midst of preparations to open Sparrow, a new North Quarter restaurant. "They came in cheering and showed me a screenshot," Chin told the Orlando Sentinel. "I was in shock. I had to sit down!" The pressure to now potentially own a tuxedo is on Chin's horizon, as he laughed about the rarity of his formal attire experiences.
On the national stage, the James Beard Foundation has also spotlighted the lauded Super Secret Ice Cream in Bethlehem, named New Hampshire's only finalist. According to an article by Union Leader, the ice cream parlor is a contender in the Outstanding Bakery category. This year's new categories include Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service, expanding the Foundation's scope of commendations.
The winners of these prestigious accolades will be celebrated at a gala event in Chicago on June 16, something both Orlando and Bethlehem culinary enthusiasts will keenly watch.
