KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – A Kansas City restaurant is in the running for one of the most prestigious honors in American dining.
The James Beard Foundation announced on Tuesday, March 31, that Anjin – located at 1708 Oak St. – has been nominated for Best New Restaurant.
The recognition is considered the pinnacle of culinary achievement in the U.S.
The Foundation noted that winners will be revealed at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony on June 15 in Chicago.
Kansas City’s Anjin: What to Know
Anjin said it draws inspiration from the spirit of Japanese izakayas, serving handcrafted udon, rotating yakitori and daily seasonal specials.
Behind the bar, the restaurant indicated that diners will find shochu, sake and Japanese beers.
Anjin is photographed on March 31, 2026, in Kansas City.(KCTV5/Zach Fisher)
The restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday, 5:30 – 11 p.m., and Monday, 5:30 p.m. to midnight.
Anjin faces stiff competition in the Best New Restaurant category, according to the Foundation. It will go up against:
1033 Omakase – MilwaukeeAgnes and Sherman – HoustonEmmett – PhiladelphiaKi – Los AngelesLei – New York CityMaison Bar à Vins – Washington, D.C. Merci – CharlestonRobin – St. LouisTamba – Las Vegas
KCTV5 has reached out to Anjin for comment and is awaiting a response.
Missouri’s Other Nominees
The Foundation said several other Missouri restaurants and chefs also earned nominations:
Vicia (St. Louis) – Outstanding RestaurantRobin (St. Louis) – Best New RestaurantLouie (Clayton) – Outstanding HospitalityLoryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box (Webster Groves) – Best ChefNick Bognar, Sado and Pavilion (St. Louis) – Best ChefAbout the James Beard Awards
For nearly four decades, the Foundation has indicated that the James Beard Awards have recognized exceptional talent and leadership in the independent restaurant industry.
Want to visit Anjin? Reserve a seat HERE.
See the full list of James Beard nominees HERE.
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Dining and Cooking