Chai Pani Restaurant Group earned a nomination. | Photo by AVLtoday
Yesterday, Jan. 21, the semifinalists nominated for the 2026 James Beard Awards — one of the culinary world’s most prestigious prizes — were announced, and three Asheville area stars are shining bright. Here’s the local flavor.
Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani, Chai Pani Restaurant Group | Outstanding Restaurateur
The Iranis are no strangers to these awards, but it is their first time being nominated for Outstanding Restaurateur, which recognizes community leadership and entrepreneurial creativity.
Matt Dawes, The Bull and Beggar | Best Chef, Southeast
Dawes is the executive chef at the European-inspired casual fine dining spot and helped revive the RAD restaurant after Helene. This nomination isn’t just about food — it’s also about making a positive mark on the community at large.
Taylor Montgomery, Montgomery Sky Farm | Best Chef, Southeast
Montgomery wears a lot of hats. He’s the founder, executive chef, and head farmer at Montgomery Sky Farm in Leicester, specializing in monthly “seed to plate” dining experiences.
Mark your calendars for March 31, when the finalists will be announced. A June 15 ceremony in Chicago will reveal the winners.
French food will remain a fixture of downtown Asheville as Le Parisien takes over the former Bouchon next month. Gabriel Attala, a Paris native and Michelin-trained chef, will lead the restaurant, serving dishes like steak frites and duck confit risotto. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Transit
Metropolitan Planning Organization Director Tristan Winkler recently told County Commissioners that Buncombe County workers are increasingly living farther from their jobs, worsening congestion. Rising rents are pushing lower-income residents into rural areas, lengthening commutes. More urban housing and alternative commuting options could help reduce traffic and ease travel times across the region. (Blue Ridge Public Radio)
Environment
County Commissioners began steps to allow Buncombe County to participate in the NC C-PACE program, which provides financing for commercial property owners to fund energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy, and other resiliency improvements. A public hearing and vote will be held on Feb. 2 before officially joining.
Arts
Next Saturday, Jan. 31, the YMI Cultural Center will present “Art Earth and Soul Kollective,” a new exhibition from local and national artists exploring what informs a sense of belonging in American life. Be there at 5 p.m. to catch a live performance. The exhibition will be open through Friday, March 20.
Try This
The River Arts District is a contender in the running for Best Arts District in USA TODAY’s 10Best Awards — and you can help the RAD secure the top spot. Vote once per day through Monday, Feb. 16 at 12 p.m. to show your AVL pride.
Coming Soon
Tropilachia Club will once again take over Little Jumbo this February, transporting you from a sleepy Appalachian winter to a relaxing island vacay. Take a peek at some of the dreamy cocktails bartenders will be pouring up.
Biz
The Economic Development Coalition of Asheville-Buncombe County reported that since 2020, its projects have helped create 1,600+ jobs, supported 125 startups, and generated more than $1 billion in investment. Executive Director Clark Duncan outlined a five-year focus on Helene recovery, including $1 million in startup support.
Edu
As a parent, it’s hard to know what moves the needle in college admissions. Empowerly starts with a free 30-minute consultation to honestly assess your student’s college profile — from there, you’ll get matched with a counselor, receive data-backed insights, and construct a plan. Get your free consult.*
Category
Education
Class is in session
OLLI offers 4-6 week courses on a wide range of topics. | Photo via UNC Asheville
Even if your school days are behind you, it’s never too late to learn something new. Whether you want to learn a new skill, study history, or become more engaged in your community, the Asheville area is a haven for lifelong learning.
OLLI, which is housed in UNC Asheville’s Reuter Center, offers a host of programs for curious adults (most members are 55+).
The College for Seniors (CFS) program gives folks the community and inspiration of academic life without the less fun partslike tests and grades. The course catalog for spring classes will become available on Monday, Feb. 2.
The community college offers courses in a variety of disciplines, built upon the concept of lifelong learning. Browse courses from Mastering Public Speaking to Beekeeping 101 to Cake Decorating, plus language and music courses.
A great dermaplaning razor for unwanted facial hair. This reusable, plastic-free one comes with 11 refill blades and can remove dead skin cells, peach fuzz, and hair on the upper lip, cheeks, and eyebrows.
Sending a huge congratulations to all of Asheville’s James Beard Award semifinalists. Thanks for making our food scene so special. You can savor the excitement with an exceptional meal during Asheville Restaurant Week, running through Monday, Jan. 26 and returning Feb. 17-23.
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