The start of restaurant awards season is already upon us, as the James Beard Foundation released its 2023 semifinalists Wednesday, and several D.C.-area businesses and chefs made the shortlist for the Oscars of the food world.

The foundation will narrow the field to finalists on March 29, and the winners will be announced (and celebrated) during an awards ceremony on June 5 in Chicago.

The James Beard Foundation underwent an “overhaul” of its award selection process during the pandemic in part because of the lack of diversity among nominees. The New York Times reported in 2020 that no Black people were selected winners in any of the 23 categories during the 2020 awards season, the year the foundation canceled the event altogether. On top of that, some of the nominees had reportedly been accused of abusing, underpaying or mistreating workers. Last year’s awards, which returned after a two-year hiatus, marked a big change for diversity and inclusion.

“The James Beard Awards mission is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive,” the foundation says on its website.

Locals will recognize some names among the semifinalists. One, Oyster Oyster, was a finalist last year for best new restaurant. The D.C. region was largely snubbed at the big show, however. No chefs or restaurants from the area won — the first time since 2012.

A few Michelin star restaurants also made this year’s semifinalist list, including Albi and Bresca. You may also recognize a name because you’ve read about them recently on our website. Ahem: Kevin Tien of Moon Rabbit is hosting a Lunar New Year dinner this weekend that will benefit the victims of the Monterey Park shooting.

Here is the full list of D.C.-area semifinalists:

Outstanding Restaurateur:

• Michael Reginbogin and Jason Berry, KNEAD Hospitality + Design (Mi Vida, Lil’ Succotash, and Gatsby)

Outstanding Chef:

• Rob Rubba, Oyster Oyster

Emerging Chef:

• Elias Taddesse, Mélange

Best New Restaurant:

• Bar Spero
• Causa

Outstanding Restaurant:

• Ris by Ris Lacoste

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker:

• Kareem Queeman, Mr. Bake

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program:

• Flight Wine Bar

Outstanding Bar:

• Allegory

Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (DC, DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA): 

• David Deshaies, L’Ardente
• Rahman “Rock” Harper, Queen Mother’s Fried Chicken
• Enrique Limardo, Seven Reasons
• Peter Prime, Bammy’s
• Michael Rafidi, Albi 
• Ryan Ratino, Bresca
• Omar Rodriguez, Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
• Kevin Tien, Moon Rabbit
• Joy Crump, FOODE

The original version of this story stated that there were no local Beard award winners in 2022. In fact, several journalists were honored.