James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards

Chicago is proud to host the annual James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards. These prestigious culinary honors are one of the most anticipated events of the year for chefs and foodies from around the country.

The annual celebration features red carpet arrivals and an awards ceremony honoring exceptional talent and achievement across the restaurant industry. The James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards take place at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, followed by a reception.

Thank you to all who attended the 2025 ceremony and congratulations to this year’s nominees and winners! Explore Chicago’s James Beard Award winners and check back for details on the 2026 James Beard Awards.

James Beard Media Awards

The James Beard Media Awards honors the nation’s top cookbook authors, food and beverage broadcast producers, hosts, podcasters, and food journalists with a ceremony and reception in Chicago.

JBF Greens Chicago

James Beard Foundation’s Greens is for food lovers under 40 in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, and Seattle. From multi-course dinners to walk-around tastings, Greens offers dynamic programming that shines a spotlight on chefs and operators making meaningful change within their communities. Events are open to Young Patrons and to the General Public.

Join the email list to hear about upcoming Greens Chicago events and learn more about the benefits of Young Patrons membership.