What to know about food, drinks and reservations at Houston restaurants nominated as 2025 James Beard Award finalists, including Ema and Tatemó.

Four Houston-area restaurants and chefs on Wednesday were named finalists for this year's James Beard Awards. Why it matters: Being nominated is one of the dining industry's highest honors. Greater Houston had 13 semifinalists this year.

Houston has had a strong showing among the finalists for this year’s James Beard Awards. The city’s chefs and restaurants scored two nominations in nationwide categories as well as two of the five nominations for Best Chef: Texas.