The James Beard Foundation recently announced the finalists for its 2024 awards honoring excellence in the restaurant and food industry. The winners will be revealed at a gala ceremony in Chicago on June 10.
Key Award Categories and Finalists
Outstanding Restaurateur
- Mamba Hamissi and Nadia Nijimbere – Baobab Fare, Detroit
- Quynh-Vy and Yenvy Pham – Several restaurants in Seattle
- Chris Viaud – Greenleaf, Ansanm, Pavilion restaurants in Milford, NH
- Hollis Wells Silverman – Duck & Peach and other restaurants in Washington, DC
- Erika and Kelly Whitaker – Wolf’s Tailor, BRUTØ and other restaurants in Boulder, CO
This award honors restaurateurs who build community through their establishments while demonstrating creativity, integrity and sustainability.
Outstanding Chef
- Sarah Minnick – Lovely’s Fifty Fifty, Portland
- Dean Neff – Seabird, Wilmington, NC
- Michael Rafidi – Albi, Washington, DC
- Renee Touponce – The Port of Call, Mystic, CT
- David Uygur – Lucia, Dallas
This award goes to chefs who set high culinary standards while contributing positively to their communities.
Outstanding Restaurant
This award recognizes restaurants demonstrating consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, hospitality and operations while positively impacting their communities.
The James Beard Foundation also announced winners of other awards like Leadership, Humanitarian of the Year and Lifetime Achievement. The media awards finalists will be revealed later on April 30.
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Julio Figueroa is a seasoned chef with over 12 years of experience in fine dining. He holds a degree in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu and is passionate about culinary innovation. As the lead contributor to chefdecuisinelosangeles.com, Julio shares his expertise and unique recipes with food enthusiasts. Connect with him on Instagram for more culinary inspiration.