Some food from Shaya. Photo by Renee Bienvenu.

New Orleans wins big at James Beard Awards

New Orleans establishments and chefs picked up three honors at the 2017 James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards—tying Philadelphia for the most from any city. The ceremony took place last night at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago.

Arnaud’s French 75 Bar took home the Outstanding Bar Program award after being nominated numerous times. Rising star Chef of the Year went to Zachary Engel of Shaya, while Rebecca Wilcomb of Herbsaint was named Best Chef: South.

In addition to the three winners, this year’s awards also featured eight other finalists from the Crescent City, including Cure (Outstanding Bar Program), Donald Link of Herbsaint (Outstanding Chef), Kelly Fields of Willa Jean (Outstanding Pastry Chef), JoAnn Clevenger of Upperline (Outstanding Restaurateur), Galatoire’s Restaurant (Outstanding Service), Emeril’s (Outstanding Wine Program), Nina Compton of Compère Lapin (Best Chef: South), and Slade Rushing of Brennan’s (Best Chef: South).

The James Beard Foundation’s annual Restaurant and Chef Awards recognize excellence in America’s culinary scene. New Orleans’ own Shaya was named Best New Restaurant at the 2016 ceremony, while Justin Deviller of La Petite Grocery was named Best Chef: South.