James Beard Foundation Announces Winners for 2016

The James Beard Foundation has officially released its annual list of best chefs and restaurants, and some important names have taken home the highly-desired medal. 

For the 26th time, the Foundation narrowed down 21 categories of esteemed finalists. More than 600 judges across the country – including food editors, critics, culinary educators and more – were in charge of selecting winners from the semifinalists list.

One mexicana is representing for all Latinos this year – Daniela Soto-Innes of Cosme took home the award for Rising Star Chef of the Year. The 27-year-old chef took her excitement to Instagram, writing that the award is dedicated to her family and her team at the Enrique Olvera restaurant.

Other noteworthy mentions include Jonathan Waxman‘s Barbuto for Best Chef: New York City and Alinea, Chicago for Outstanding Restaurant. See the full list of winners here, and congratulations to all the winners!