The Full List of James Beard Awards 2026 Restaurant and Chef Winners

The James Beard Foundation announced the 2026 James Beard Awards restaurant and chef winners on Monday, June 15, during a ceremony in Chicago. These awards are considered among the highest honors in the U.S. restaurant industry, recognizing excellence in culinary arts and hospitality. The event concluded the annual awards cycle, which had been preceded by months of anticipation. The foundation aims to celebrate and support the people behind America's food culture. Winners are selected through a rigorous process involving a national judging committee and a review board. The awards cover a wide range of categories, including outstanding chef, best new restaurant, and outstanding baker. The ceremony highlighted the resilience and innovation within the culinary sector, particularly following recent challenges faced by the industry. The foundation also emphasizes its commitment to promoting a more sustainable and equitable food system.