News Summary
Sky Haneul Kim, renowned chef of Gift Horse in Providence, Rhode Island, has been awarded the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast. Announced during a ceremony in Chicago on June 16, 2025, this recognition celebrates Kim’s outstanding culinary work and contributions toward equity and sustainability in the food community. Gift Horse is noted for its innovative raw bar inspired by South Korean culinary influences. Other Rhode Island chefs and restaurants were also recognized, showcasing the state’s vibrant culinary scene.
Providence, Rhode Island – Sky Haneul Kim, the talented chef behind Gift Horse, has been honored with the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast. This accolade was officially announced during the ceremony held on June 16, 2025, in Chicago, which celebrated outstanding contributions in the culinary field across various regions, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
The James Beard Foundation, renowned for its recognition of excellence in the culinary and food media industries, awarded Kim not only for her culinary skills but also for her efforts in fostering equity and sustainability within the community. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Awards, affirming its significance in celebrating culinary achievements.
Gift Horse, located in Providence, is acclaimed for its innovative raw bar that draws on South Korean culinary influences. The restaurant has set a standard for creative dining, embracing a combination of flavors that highlight the rich diversity of ingredients in the region.
Notable Nominations from Rhode Island
While Gift Horse basked in the limelight with Kim’s victory, other Rhode Island establishments also showcased their culinary prowess. Oberlin, another prominent restaurant in Providence, received a nomination for the Outstanding Restaurant category but ultimately did not secure the award. Furthermore, Nikhil Naiker of NIMKI was recognized as a finalist for Emerging Chef, while Derek Wagner from Nicks on Broadway was nominated for Best Chef: Northeast. Both chefs and their respective restaurants have played a significant role in enriching Rhode Island’s culinary landscape.
Other Awards and Recognition
The Outstanding Restaurant award was conferred upon Frasca Food and Wine, based in Boulder, Colorado. This prestigious recognition emphasizes the dedication and quality that successful establishments consistently bring to their communities. Additionally, Cassie Piuma from Sarma in Somerville, Massachusetts, was nominated for the Outstanding Chef award, with the title ultimately awarded to Jungsik Yim from Jungsik in New York.
Sullivan’s Castle Island in South Boston was awarded the America’s Classics Award, further illustrating the variety of culinary experiences being honored across New England.
Rhode Island’s Culinary Scene
This year’s awards featured ten finalists in various categories, highlighting the regional commitment to culinary excellence and innovation, despite the limited number of awards available. The recognition of multiple finalists from Rhode Island not only reflects the quality of cuisine being produced but also illustrates the growing reputation of the state’s culinary scene on a national scale.
As the culinary community comes together to celebrate these achievements, Kim’s win serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the vital role chefs and restaurants play in shaping a vibrant food culture. The ongoing emphasis on creativity, sustainability, and community engagement within the culinary arts continues to elevate the dining experience for all.
The James Beard Awards remain a key indicator of talent within the culinary sector, with winners and nominees alike receiving well-deserved recognition for their steady dedication and contributions to the food industry.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The Providence Journal
- GoLocalProv
- Boston Magazine
- Rhode Island Monthly
- What’s Up Newp
- Wikipedia: James Beard Awards
- Google Search: James Beard Awards
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.
