Richmond’s Leah Branch has been named a 2026 semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.

Branch, a Chesterfield native, has worked at The Roosevelt in Richmond since 2022. There, she highlights Southern cuisine and honors African American culinarians, particularly those from Virginia. 

This marks the first time since 2020 that a Richmond chef has been recognized by the James Beard Awards, often described as the culinary equivalent of the Oscars. 

James Beard Award finalists will be announced March 3, with winners celebrated at a ceremony in June.