News Summary
Sky Haneul Kim, a chef at Gift Horse in Providence, has been recognized as the Best Chef: Northeast at the 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards. This prestigious accolade highlights her unique culinary style, which blends traditional Korean flavors. Kim is the third chef from Rhode Island to win this honor and aims to inspire others, especially women and immigrants, in the culinary industry. Her victory also reflects the evolving dining scene in Rhode Island, showcasing the state’s growing recognition in the culinary world.
Providence – Sky Haneul Kim, a chef at Gift Horse in Providence, has been awarded the title of Best Chef: Northeast at the prestigious 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards held on June 16, 2025, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. This accolade is recognized as one of the highest honors in the culinary world, often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world.”
Kim’s victory is a significant achievement for Rhode Island, marking her as the third chef from the state to receive a James Beard award and the second to win in the past three years. Previously, Sherry Pocknett received the Best Chef: Northeast award in 2023, although her restaurant, Sly Fox Den Too, has since closed.
Competing against a cohort of talented finalists, including Avery Buck from May Day in Vermont, Brian Lewis from The Cottage in Connecticut, Erin Miller from Urban Hearth in Massachusetts, and fellow Rhode Islander Derek Wagner from Nicks on Broadway, Kim’s win showcases the growing recognition of Rhode Island’s dining scene. Other Rhode Islanders also received accolades at the event, such as Nikhil Naiker, who was named as an Emerging Chef finalist, and Oberlin, recognized as an Outstanding Restaurant finalist.
Kim is celebrated for her unique approach to cooking, particularly her fusion of traditional Korean flavors at Gift Horse, which is located on Westminster Street in Providence. She emphasizes maintaining the integrity of these traditional flavors while also experimenting, reflecting her background and passion for cooking, which was inspired by her grandmother.
The significance of Kim’s win extends beyond her culinary accomplishments. She expressed feelings of disbelief and emotions upon receiving the award, demonstrating the weight of her journey as an immigrant and a woman in the culinary field. Her experience also includes learning English while training as a chef, showcasing her determination and resilience.
While accepting the award, Kim wore a traditional Korean Hanbok, symbolizing her heritage and honoring her roots. She hopes her victory will serve as a motivation for other immigrants, women, and individuals in the culinary industry to embrace their own confidence and pursue their passions.
Gift Horse, owned by Ben Sukle, serves as a platform for Kim’s culinary efforts. Sukle praised her confidence, dedication, and innovation in the kitchen, positioning her as a leader within the local culinary scene.
This recognition is part of a larger trend of increasing acknowledgment of Rhode Island’s culinary talents. The state’s dining landscape has begun to garner attention for its diversity and quality, with emerging chefs and restaurants receiving honors that recognize their contributions to the culinary arts.
As Kim looks back on the last decade, she reflects on the challenges she has faced, as well as her achievements. Her story resonates with many, offering a narrative of perseverance and dedication that inspires future generations in the culinary industry.
In summary, Sky Haneul Kim’s accolade at the 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards not only highlights her individual talent but also shines a light on the evolving culinary scene in Rhode Island, paving the way for greater recognition and opportunities within the industry.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New England’s Culinary Scene Shines at James Beard Awards
Sky Haneul Kim Wins James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast
Providence Restaurant Nominated for James Beard Award
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal
- Wikipedia: James Beard
- Rhode Island Monthly
- Google Search: Sky Haneul Kim
- WPRI
- Encyclopedia Britannica: James Beard
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
