James Beard Awards To Stay In Chicago Through 2021

By Stephen Gossett in Food on Oct 14, 2016 7:44PM

Chef Grant Achatz is congratulated after accepting the Outstanding Restaurant award for Alinea at the James Beard Awards (Photo: Huge Galdones Photography / JBF) / Facebook

Chicago is undoubtedly among the forefront of the national culinary landscape, and today that stature was cemented even further, as one of the most prestigious awards in food and dining will remain based in the city.

The James Beard Awards ceremony is staying in Chicago, at least through 2021, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced on Friday. The partnership between the city and the James Beard Foundation was set to expire in 2017 before the arrangement was extended.

“The opportunity to host the James Beard Awards for an additional four years is testament to the city of Chicago’s reputation as a culinary capital and cultural destination,” Emanuel said in press release. “Chicago’s world-class culinary scene is an important part of the city’s economy, supporting jobs and economic opportunities in neighborhoods across the city. We are proud to continue hosting this prestigious event and look forward to showing even more visitors what our city has to offer.”

Not only has Chicago proven a capable host city, locals have fared well in the competition itself: more than 25 Chicago-based chefs and restaurants were nominated in 2016.

"Chicago’s hospitality industry is proud to uphold the James Beard Foundation's mission of honoring America's culinary heritage,” Sam Toia, President & CEO, Illinois Restaurant Association said in a release. "The Awards punctuate Chicago’s prominence as a leading culinary giant, and shine a spotlight on our own diverse community of restaurants and chefs.”