The James Beard Foundation

The James Beard Foundation is a nonprofit organization that celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive. Established nearly 40 years ago, the Foundation highlights the centrality of food culture in our daily lives and is committed to supporting a resilient and flourishing independent restaurant industry by working to create a more equitable and sustainable future—what we call Good Food for Good®. The mission is brought to life through the annual James Beard Awards, industry and community-focused programs, advocacy, partnerships, and events across the country.

Their annual Taste America® culinary series presented by Capital One brings together chefs, special guests, and diners to celebrate local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. In this series, 20 of the  nation’s finest chefs and changemakers, known as the TasteTwenty, come together in 20 markets across the United States to collaborate throughout the year at chef dinners and walk-around tastings, spotlighting the breadth and unity of culinary creativity.

The Foundation also welcomes guests from New York and beyond to Platform by the James Beard Foundation for the ultimate culinary experience where culture, pleasure, and purpose meet. Located in Pier 57’s new Market 57 food hall, Platform is a state-of-the-art show kitchen and educational space for outstanding culinary arts programing including guest chef dinners and wine pairings, food and beverage classes, talks and screenings, and demonstrations.

Learn more at jamesbeard.org, sign up for the newsletter, and follow @beardfoundation and @platformbyjbf on social media.