Only one Austinite will contend for a James Beard Award in 2025. Arjav Ezekiel, the beverage director at Birdie's, is an Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service nominee.

Ezekiel co-owns the acclaimed counter-service restaurant and wine bar alongside his wife, Chef Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel, who was a 2024 James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef: Texas.

Ezekiel curates Birdie's wine list based on what's cooking in the kitchen + the weather. | Photo by @evakolenko via @birdiesaustin + @arjavezekiel

While the Capital City's culinary spotlight shines solely on Ezekiel this year, the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award Nominees list also features finalists in San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, Spring, Lewisville, and Marfa.

Winners will be announced on Monday, June 16, at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony in Chicago.

Hungry for more? Dig into this year's local semifinalists + our historical list of James Beard Award nominees and winners in ATX.