Chef Amarilys Colón of La Padrona has been named a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Northeast, earning recognition for her sophisticated Italian cuisine at the elegant Raffles Hotel restaurant in Back Bay.
La Padrona, which has earned both James Beard attention and a recommendation on the Michelin Guide, showcases Colón's mastery of Italian classics elevated by her meticulous attention to detail and quality ingredients. The restaurant has quickly become one of Boston's most celebrated fine dining destinations since its opening.
Colón's path to culinary stardom reflects the increasingly diverse voices shaping American cuisine. Her cooking demonstrates technical precision learned through years of dedicated practice while honoring the warmth and generosity that define great hospitality.
The restaurant's name, meaning 'The Boss' in Italian, perfectly captures Colón's confident approach to her craft. Her dishes have earned praise from critics and diners alike, with the Italian classics executed at the highest level while maintaining the soul that makes great food memorable.
La Padrona's recognition comes as Boston's culinary scene enjoys unprecedented national attention. The city's debut on the Michelin Guide, combined with strong showings in the James Beard semifinalist announcements, signals that Boston has firmly established itself among America's great food cities.
For Colón, the semifinalist nod represents validation of years of hard work and dedication to her craft. The James Beard Foundation will announce finalists on March 31, with winners celebrated at a June 15 gala in Chicago. Whatever happens, La Padrona's star continues to rise.