The James Beard Awards, often referred to as the Oscars of the food world, were held on June 10, 2024 in Chicago. The awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary industry. Among this year's winners were Michael Rafidi of Albi in Washington D.C., who was named Outstanding Chef, and Serigne Mbaye of Dakar NOLA in New Orleans, who won for Best New Restaurant.
Michael Rafidi, a Palestinian chef, dedicated his award to the Palestinian people and his grandfather who was also a chef. Albi is known for its creative twists on traditional Arabic cuisine inspired by Rafidi's family roots in Ramallah.
Serigne Mbaye, originally from Senegal, blends West African roots with ingredients of New Orleans on Dakar NOLA's modern Senegalese tasting menu. Despite cooking classic Creole and French cuisine at other restaurants, he always believed that West Africa had something to say.
The Thai restaurant Langbaan in Portland, Oregon, won the Outstanding Restaurant award for its transformative approach to classic Thai food using Pacific Northwest ingredients.
Other notable winners include Paul Smith of 1010 Bridge in Charleston, West Virginia, who was named Best Chef: Southeast. Lula Drake Wine Parlour in Columbia, South Carolina won the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program award.
The James Beard Awards have been criticized for a lack of diversity and allegations of unethical behavior among nominees. However, this year's ceremony saw a diverse range of cuisine and chef experience. The awards are named after James Beard, an influential American cookbook author, teacher, and television personality.
