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Dig into Knoxville’s 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists

Two local chefs are in the running for a James Beard Award nomination.

January 22, 2026 • 
Morgan O’Neal
865today-Potchke-Deli-January-2026.jpg

Potchke recently celebrated its first anniversary. | Photo via @potchke

We hope you’re hungry. The 2026 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists are officially out, and two Knoxville chefs are in the running for one of the culinary world’s highest honors.

Outstanding Chef — Joseph Lenn, J.C. Holdway

Already a familiar name on the national food scene, Lenn continues to earn acclaim for his thoughtful, ingredient-driven cooking. At J.C. Holdway, he blends family traditions and East Tennessee influences into a menu that’s won over critics and locals alike.

Best Chef: Southeast — Laurence Faber, Potchke Deli

A self-taught chef inspired by his Jewish heritage, Faber — alongside his wife and business partner, Emily Williams — has turned Potchke into a neighborhood staple, known for classic deli fare and hand-rolled bagels.

What’s next? Finalists will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, and winners will be celebrated during a Monday, June 15 ceremony in Chicago, IL.

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