Semifinalists for the "Oscars of Food" have been announced, and one of Accord, NY's newest restaurants has received a nod for a top honor.

The annual James Beard Awards are meant to recognize the top chefs, bakers, and pastry wizards in the country. Unsurprisingly, there are more than a few Hudson Valley restaurants on their recently-released list of semifinalists, including one Ulster County destination that has only just settled into their new location.

Harana Kitchen in Accord, NY was recently announced as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef in New York
Harana Kitchen in Accord, NY was recently announced as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef in New York (Harana Market via Instagram)
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James Beard Semifinalist in Accord, NY

Harana Market, a Filipino restaurant and Asian grocery store that recently relocated to Accord, NY from nearby Woodstock, NY made the joyous announcement on their Instagram page: they are officially James Beard semifinalists in the category of Best Chef in New York.

Harana Kitchen in Accord, NY is a James beard Semifinalist

Their new location (below), which has only been open since December 7th 2023, was a result of Harana Kitchen's lease terminating at their original Woodstock, NY kitchen. The updated restaurant at 5125 Route 209 in Accord, NY is the latest dining destination to take over the building, but if the James Beard semifinal honor is any indication, they could be the most permanent resident yet.

Harana Kitchen moved to Accord, NY in December 2023. They took over a building that has housed several other restaurants in the past
Harana Kitchen moved to Accord, NY in December 2023. They took over a building that has housed several other restaurants in the past (Google)
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James Beard Semifinalists in the Hudson Valley, NY

The semifinals are only the first step towards winning the top honors. Finalists for Best Chef in New York will be announced on April 3rd, and winners will be announced on June 10th. Other Hudson Valley semifinalists for Best Chef in New York include Shaina Loew-Banayan at Café Mutton in Hudson, NY, Doris Choi at Good Night in Woodstock, NY and Clare de Boer at Stissing House in Pine Plains, NY. Check out previous nominations below.

New York State James Beard 2022 Restaurant and Chef Awards semifinalists

Hudson Valley Restaurant Perfect for Date Night

Treat yourself to a romantic dinner at one of these unsuspecting Hudson Valley Restaurants. They offer the perfect combination of food and drink with a dining experience that feels intimate. I like to say these places are hiding in plain sight. You know them, you may even drive by them and now it is time to stop in for a romantic dinner date. From Kingston to Rhinebeck to Cornwall, and a few places in between it will be hard to decide you may need to visit all of them to pick you favorite.

Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn