Awards program seeks new host city

Often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world,” the James Beard Awards are the highest honors in the American culinary industry. Given out annually by the James Beard Foundation, they recognize exceptional talent and achievement among chefs, restaurateurs, food journalists, authors and broadcasters. Chicago has hosted the James Beard Awards ceremony for the past 11 years. The city’s current hosting agreement secures the ceremony through 2028, and now, the Foundation says they are looking for a new host city and Detroit is interested. “Detroit’s culinary scene has never been more dynamic. Our chefs and restaurants keep earning recognition from the James Beard Foundation, and Michelin is putting Detroit in its upcoming Great Lakes Edition,” said Claude Molinari, President & CEO, Visit Detroit. “We’re aware the Foundation is exploring a new home for the awards, and we’re taking a hard look at the opportunity. Any conversation about the future of American food should include Detroit.” Each year, more than 1,800 people attend the sold-out flagship James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony. The multi-day program also features smaller concurrent gatherings like the Media and Impact/Achievement events. According to Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics Company, the 2026 James Beard Awards had a $17 million impact on Chicago, its host city. This included: $8.3 million in direct spending; 175 FTE (full time equivalent) jobs supported; and $1.2 million in state and local tax revenue.