The James Beard Foundation® has unveiled the winners of the 2024 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards, presented by Capital One. This esteemed event honors the finest achievements across the culinary industry, from exquisite fine dining to beloved community gems, while promoting a sustainable future for the industry. The complete list of winners is available on the James Beard Foundation’s website.
The awards were revealed during a lively ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. The event was co-hosted by notable chefs and media personalities, including Nyesha Arrington, Richard Blais, Amanda Freitag, and Marcus Samuelsson. The ceremony also featured red carpet correspondents and food industry luminaries, enhancing the night’s prestige and excitement.
Arizona’s Rene Andrade Takes Home Best Chef: Southwest
Among the distinguished honorees, Arizona’s own Rene Andrade of Bacanora in Phoenix was celebrated as the Best Chef: Southwest. This recognition highlights Andrade’s exceptional culinary talent and his positive contributions to the community, solidifying his place among the nation’s top chefs.
“Tonight, we raise a glass to the 2024 Restaurant and Chef Award winners for their phenomenal achievements,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation. “These remarkable individuals embody the very essence of our Good Food for Good ethos, showcasing exceptional talent, unwavering dedication to their craft, and a steadfast commitment to elevating the industry.”
Dawn Padmore, VP of Awards, James Beard Foundation, added, “Congratulations to the 2024 Restaurant and Chef winners on this well-deserved recognition. I also extend a big thanks to our subcommittee and judges for their dedication to the Awards.”
The 2024 James Beard Awards celebrate a diverse range of culinary excellence across 22 categories, recognizing both emerging talents and established icons in the food industry. Here are some of the notable winners:
- Outstanding Chef: Michael Rafidi, Albi, Washington, D.C.
- Outstanding Restaurateur: Erika Whitaker and Kelly Whitaker, ID EST (The Wolf’s Tailor, BRUTØ, Basta, and others), Boulder, CO
- Outstanding Restaurant: Langbaan, Portland, OR
- Emerging Chef: Masako Morishita, Perry’s, Washington, D.C.
- Best New Restaurant: Dakar NOLA, New Orleans, LA
- Outstanding Bakery: ZU Bakery, Portland, ME
- Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Atsuko Fujimoto, Norimoto Bakery, Portland, ME
- Outstanding Hospitality: Lula Cafe, Chicago, IL
- Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Lula Drake Wine Parlour, Columbia, SC
- Outstanding Bar: Jewel of the South, New Orleans, LA
The James Beard Foundation continues to support and celebrate the people behind America’s food culture. Established over 30 years ago, the Foundation’s mission is to create a more equitable and sustainable future for the restaurant industry through annual awards, industry programs, advocacy, and events.
For more information about the James Beard Awards and to see the full list of winners, visit the James Beard Foundation’s website.