The News
The Port of Call, a cocktail-forward bar and restaurant under the 85th Day Food Community, has been named a finalist for the 2026 James Beard Award in the Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages Program. This award recognizes excellence in pairing wine and other beverages with food, placing The Port of Call among the nation's top beverage programs. The recognition marks the fourth overall James Beard award for 85th Day Food Community and their third finalist nomination.
The Takeaway
- Beverage Innovation Spotlight: The Port of Call's recognition highlights how a wine-focused beverage program can be as innovative and collaborative as any top-tier restaurant, showing that wine is not just an afterthought but a central part of the dining experience.
- Wine Program Recognition: Being named a finalist for this prestigious award underscores the importance of thoughtful wine pairings in fine dining, which is rare for a bar-focused establishment like The Port of Call.
- Industry Credibility Boost: This nomination adds to 85th Day Food Community’s growing reputation as a leader in beverage innovation, with their approach to seasonality and ingredient-driven menus setting a new standard for wine programs across the Northeast.
Original Press Release
The Port of Call, the cocktail-forward bar and restaurant from the 85th Day Food Community, has been named a finalist for the 2026 James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages Program by the James Beard Foundation. The honor recognizes excellence in the selection and pairing of wine and other beverages with food, placing The Port of Call among the most distinguished beverage programs in the country.
This marks the fourth overall James Beard recognition for 85th Day Food Community, the team behind Oyster Club, The Port of Call, Stone Acres Farm, Engine Room and Haring's Noank, and their third finalist nomination, further solidifying their role in shaping Mystic into one of the Northeast's most compelling culinary destinations.
Led by Beverage Director Jade Ayala, The Port of Call has built a reputation for a thoughtful, ingredient-driven beverage program that works in seamless dialogue with the kitchen. Alongside Executive Chef Renée Touponce and Chef de Cuisine Corey Lein, the team curates menus that emphasize seasonality, balance, and a deep respect for sourcing - an approach that has become a hallmark of 85th Day's broader philosophy.
"We're honored to be recognized by the Beard Foundation in a category that celebrates the relationship between food and beverage in such a meaningful way," said Ayala. "Everything we do at The Port of Call is collaborative — from how we think about ingredients to how a drink interacts with a dish — but it's also about creating a feeling. That comes from a female-led, queer team of food and beverage creatives who care deeply about what we do. Things don't always come easy, and we've never taken the easy road — we've chosen to be thoughtful, to put in the work, and to create a space where everyone feels genuinely welcome. This recognition reflects that spirit and the intention behind everything we do."
Ayala, alongside Stephanie Cohen, Yanitza Yepes, Claire Bohen and the full bar team, has developed a program that prioritizes creativity and precision, elevating the guest experience through intentional pairings and a strong sense of place. Their work reflects a broader commitment across 85th Day to ingredient integrity and hospitality that's both refined and approachable.
Over the past several years, 85th Day Food Community has played a defining role in Mystic's evolution. With multiple concepts that span from elevated dining to immersive farm experiences, the group has drawn critical attention and industry acclaim, helping to establish Mystic as a leading culinary destination.
Winners of the 2026 James Beard Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Chicago Monday June 15th.
About The Port of CallThe Port of Call is a cocktail-driven bar and restaurant in Mystic, Connecticut, from the 85th Day Food Community. Known for its dynamic beverage program and ingredient-focused approach, The Port of Call offers a menu that highlights thoughtful pairings and a collaborative relationship between bar and kitchen.
About 85th Day Food Community85th Day Food Community is a collection of hospitality concepts that include Oyster Club, The Port of Call, Stone Acres Farm, Engine Room and Haring's Noank.
Media Contact:Helen Patrikis411475@email4pr.com 631-553-1370
SOURCE 85th Day Food Community
Source: PR Newswire
