ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – St. Augustine is back on the national culinary map.
Chef Barry Honan of Lotus Noodle Bar was named a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: South. The recognition makes Honan eligible for consideration for a James Beard Award later this year.
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Often described as the nation’s highest culinary honors, the James Beard Awards recognize “leaders who collectively embody the breadth of American culinary excellence,” according to the foundation’s release. Honan was included alongside other notable chefs across the South.
“I’m on an unwavering pursuit of excellence — and I have a strong desire to push the boundaries in my kitchen and dining room to deliver extraordinary experiences that leave a lasting impression,” Honan said. “This recognition certainly feels like validation of that vision.”
Lotus Noodle Bar, a 35-seat restaurant on the edge of Uptown, opened in 2023. The restaurant serves dishes influenced by modern Japanese cuisine and shaped by French technique. An open-concept kitchen and carefully designed dining room allow guests to watch Honan and his team at work.
“To be included alongside so many talented individuals is not something I quite expected; I’m proud, it’s humbling, it’s exciting,” Honan said. “Culinary excellence is not achieved alone — it’s a team effort.”
Honan has previously partnered with the James Beard Foundation. In 2025, he participated in a James Beard Foundation dinner in St. Augustine in collaboration with the St. Johns Cultural Council. Organizers are planning another James Beard Foundation event in the region this spring.
Community members and local organizations celebrated Honan’s semifinalist announcement on social media.
St. Johns Cultural Council Executive Director Jeff Potts called the recognition another reason to visit St. Augustine.
“First, congratulations Chef Barry; and then — this is one of many spectacular reasons to be in St. Augustine,” Potts said. “Whether you live here or play here, this is a great recognition.”
Potts said the council, which supports arts, culture, and heritage initiatives throughout St. Johns County, views culinary work as part of the area’s broader arts community.
“Supporting artists in St. Augustine is a huge part of what the Cultural Council serves to do — and Chef Honan makes that easy,” Potts said. “Plan ahead, make your reservations. We are world class in a lot of spaces under the arts umbrella — and it’s time the culinary arts are recognized as a part of it.”
Lotus Noodle Bar is located at 56 Grove St. in St. Augustine. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner; reservations are recommended.