San Diego and La Jolla chef Tara Monsod again a James Beard finalist

Last Updated on May 1, 2025

The two-time finalist helms the kitchens at Animae and Le Coq.

Tara Monsod, executive chef of Animae in San Diego and Le Coq in La Jolla, has been named a finalist for the 2025 James Beard Foundation’s “Best Chef: California” award.

Monsod is the only San Diego chef named; It’s Monsod’s second year in a row to earn a finalist spot.

The 35th annual James Beard Awards, the nation’s most prestigious culinary honors, will be announced during a ceremony Monday, June 16.

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Elisabeth Frausto

Elisabeth Frausto has been reporting on and writing about La Jolla since 2019. With dozens of local and state journalism awards to her name, Elisabeth knows the industry as well as she knows her community. When she’s not covering all things 92037, you’ll find her with coffee in hand staring at the sea.

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San Diego and La Jolla chef Tara Monsod again a James Beard finalist