The James Beard Foundation aims to be a destination for excellence across the independent restaurant industry, driving the country towards a better food system.

As an organization, the James Beard Foundation has evolved beyond the scope of influence any one person could have had, but all the while keeping true to the ideals that James Beard professed—that is, emphasizing the importance of wholesome food, good cooking, and good eating by educating, mentoring, supporting, and caring for the people who prepare and enjoy it.

Today our mission to lead chefs and the broader culinary industry towards a new standard of excellence shines through in everything we do. We continue to build on the foundation James Beard laid and seek to fulfill our vision of a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable independent restaurant industry that stands as a cornerstone of American culture, community, and economy — and drives towards a better food system.

We believe in Good Food for Good — an expression of our commitment to the independent restaurant industry. It’s all about an industry that is fueled by passion and bold points of view. Restaurants with a purpose that don’t just feed—but inspire change.

Good Food for Good stands for something. Crafted with care. Served with purpose. Rooted in equity. Built for a better tomorrow. Good food that’s not just for good—it’s for the greater good.

At the James Beard Foundation, every plate, every professional, every restaurant we recognize is part of something bigger—a movement that defines excellence, champions good industry culture and practices, and proves that a thriving independent restaurant industry drives us all toward a better food system.