5 James Beard Nominated Restaurants You Must Try (In Your Best Short-Sleeved Shirt, Of Course)

If there’s one thing we at Airthreads believe in, it’s this: great food deserves great fashion. And with James Beard-nominated restaurants popping up across the U.S., this summer is your chance to savor award-worthy dishes, while looking just as sharp as the plating.

We’ve rounded up 5 new James Beard-nominated spots you must try, and yes, we’ve paired each with the perfect button-down shirt (short sleeve, of course). Because whether you’re savoring duck confit or sipping on something barrel-aged, your style should be as tasteful as your order.

1. Benu — San Francisco, CA

Chef Corey Lee’s modern Asian-fusion haven isn’t just food—it’s a performance. Think xiao long bao filled with foie gras and intricate tasting menus in a minimalist setting.

Style tip: Match the understated elegance of Benu with a crisp white button-down shirt (short sleeve men’s essential) in lightweight poplin. Add sleek chinos and a minimalist watch. Boom—fine dining, fine dressing.

2. Coquine — Portland, OR

This neighborhood gem feels cozy but serves up powerhouse flavors. Expect Oregon-sourced everything, wood-fired details, and a killer wine list.

Style tip: Portland's laid-back charm calls for a chambray or textured short sleeve button down shirt—airy, effortlessly stylish, and just rugged enough to look like you picked your own heirloom tomatoes this morning.

3. Georges French Bistro — Wichita, KS

Yes, Wichita. And yes, escargot, duck à l'orange, and charming European flair. Georges is making waves for bringing an elevated experience to the heartland.

Style tip: Try a short sleeve shirt with a subtle French print (think micro motifs) and tuck it slightly into tailored trousers. Très bien.

4. Ghee Indian Kitchen — Miami, FL

Chef Niven Patel’s take on Indian cuisine is bold, bright, and garden-fresh. Literally—some of the ingredients are grown in his backyard.

Style tip: Beat that Miami heat with a light cotton button down shirt (short sleeve) in a saturated jewel tone like mustard, emerald, or indigo. The fit should be tailor-made, just like your plate.

5. Your Local Hidden Gem

Here’s the thing about foodies—they don’t gatekeep. So, while you plan your foodie road trip, don’t forget to support the James Beard-worthy joints near you. And don’t show up in a tee. You know better.

Style tip: Elevate even a casual dinner with a breathable custom-fit short sleeve shirt. Comfort meets class—exactly how we do things at Airthreads.

Why Short Sleeves, Though?

Because it’s summer. Because good food makes you sweat. Because short sleeves let you raise a glass, fork, or flame-grilled taco without restriction. And because a tailored short-sleeved button-down shirt for men is vastly underrated.

Looking to upgrade your foodie wardrobe?
Explore Airthreads’ collection of custom-made short-sleeve shirts—built for warm days, hot plates, and cool compliments.