The James Beard Awards celebrated culinary excellence with Palestinian, Senegalese, and Thai chefs taking top honors. More than 100 restaurants were finalists across 22 categories at the Oscars of the culinary world, showcasing a diverse range of cuisine and chef experience. Winners included Michael Rafidi, who pays homage to his Palestinian roots at his D.C. restaurant Albi, and Serigne Mbaye, whose Senegalese restaurant Dakar NOLA won best new restaurant. The awards mark a shift towards inclusivity and recognition, following turbulent pandemic years for the James Beard Foundation. With a focus on ethical standards and diversity, the foundation is aiming to reflect the industry better. Other winners included Langbaan for outstanding restaurant, Lula Cafe for outstanding hospitality, and Erika and Kelly Whitaker for outstanding restauranteur, emphasizing sustainability and zero waste practices. The awards ceremony in Chicago honored those pushing culinary boundaries and making a positive impact in the industry.