Chattanooga Celebrates James Beard Foundation Recognition for Local Culinary Gems

In The Know with Gino…

Chattanooga’s vibrant culinary scene received a significant boost this week as two local establishments earned prestigious honors from the James Beard Foundation, one of the most esteemed organizations in the American food industry.

Chef Khaled Albanna of Calliope and Niedlov’s Café & Bakery have been named semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards, highlighting the city’s diverse and innovative food culture. Albanna is in the running for Best Chef: Southeast, while Niedlov’s has been recognized as a semifinalist for Outstanding Bakery.

Albanna, originally from Jordan, opened Calliope in 2021 alongside co-owner Raven Humphrey. The restaurant, which moved to its current location on Chattanooga’s historic MLK Boulevard in 2022, has quickly made a name for itself. Drawing inspiration from the Levant—an area encompassing parts of the Middle East and Mediterranean—Calliope offers a menu that combines regional flavors with seasonal Southern ingredients. Its thoughtful cocktail program further sets it apart.

“I’m very ecstatic and humbled to receive this recognition,” Albanna said. “We are so thankful to our local community for supporting us over the past three years. This achievement is a testament to our dedicated team members who bring their skills and passion every day. We look forward to what’s next.”

This recognition follows a landmark year for Calliope, which was named one of The New York Times’ Top 50 Restaurants in the United States in 2025—one of only two Tennessee restaurants to earn that distinction. The restaurant has also received accolades from Food & Wine Magazine and was honored at the James Beard House in New York City in 2023.

Niedlov’s Café & Bakery, under the leadership of Erik and Lauren Zilen since 2015, has been recognized as a semifinalist for Outstanding Bakery, a category celebrating bakeries that exemplify excellence, consistency, and community impact. Known for its artisan bread, pastries, and café offerings, Niedlov’s remains a cornerstone of Chattanooga’s food culture, emphasizing local ingredients and regional grains.

“Looking at the list of other bakeries recognized, it’s very humbling and surreal,” said Erik Zilen. “This honor speaks to the incredible work of our team, our farmers, and our partners. It motivates us to continue pushing our craft and helping develop a grain economy in Southeast Tennessee.”

These accolades underscore Chattanooga’s expanding reputation as a culinary destination, blending globally inspired cuisine with traditional baking artistry. The recognition from the James Beard Foundation not only celebrates individual excellence but also highlights the city’s vibrant food community and its place on the national culinary map.

For more about the James Beard Awards and the 2026 semifinalists, visit jamesbeard.org.

To explore Calliope’s innovative menu, visit callioperestaurant.com. For more about Niedlov’s Bakery, go to niedlovs.com.

SOURCE: Tim Moore – tim@collision.marketing – (423) 716-7207