The James Beard Foundation is a nonprofit organization with a mission to lead chefs and the broader culinary industry towards a new standard of excellence.

The James Beard Foundation is committed to a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable independent restaurant industry where all have the opportunity to thrive. To achieve our vision, we live and breathe our brand promises every day.

1. We are champions of the independent restaurant industry in America

We recognize the unique value and power of the independent restaurant community and we devote our energy, resource and focus to promoting, protecting and enhancing that value – cultural, societal and economic. We understand the challenges that our community face and dedicate ourselves to finding solutions to overcome them.

2. We balance celebration and impact

We are the only nonprofit in the food arena that rejoices in the delight and deliciousness of food and the precious nature of food culture that leads chefs and the broader culinary industry towards a new standard of excellence.

3. We are outcome-focused and purpose-driven

We are responsible stewards of our funds and ensure that we allocate our resource and focus to initiatives that best deliver a more equitable, sustainable and resilient restaurant industry, and a better food system.

Our outcomes are:

• A vibrant, resilient, equitable and sustainable independent restaurant industry

• Next generation of American chefs and culinary leaders committed to a new standard of excellence

• Policy change that supports the industry and the broader food system

• Food lovers that value independent restaurants and recognize their own role in supporting their survival, and recognize that ‘good food’ extends beyond the plate

4. We drive change in the world through chefs and restaurants

Chef and operators are our change agents. We recognize their unique position of influence and agency. Through our Awards and events, we spotlight those leading the way; and through our training and education programs we equip our community to push for a new standard of excellence in independent restaurants and for a better food system.

5. We partner with chefs to harness the power of food to drive positive change in the world

We are committed to excellence. For nearly 40 years, we have acted as the standard bearers for the independent restaurant industry - recognizing and celebrating excellence within the culinary arts. Over the decades, we have actively evolved our definition of excellence, always centered in talent and deliciousness, and reflecting food culture and practices. We hold ourselves to the highest standard, and excellence runs through everything we do.

6. We guide and inspire food lovers

Diners and food lovers are essential for a thriving independent restaurant industry. Through our Awards and events, we help broaden their horizons, steer them towards new culinary experiences, and keep them ‘in the know’. It is also our job to inform food lovers of the critical value of independent restaurants, to foster a deep appreciation for the industry’s vital contributions to American culture, and to educate them on their role in supporting the survival and vibrancy of the industry.

7. We are passionate about our work and our community

We love food, chefs and the planet! We are personally invested in protecting, strengthening and celebrating food culture and the independent restaurant industry. We go above and beyond to be leaders and a valuable resource for the community.

8. We act with integrity, authenticity, and are a trusted voice

We have almost 40 years of experience leading the culinary industry. Our work is built on a strong legacy. We stand true to our commitment towards a new standard of excellence. We do what we say we’ll do.