Plan Your Visit

Background

James Beard always welcomed students, authors, chefs, and other guests into his home—his kitchen was truly at the heart of America’s burgeoning food scene. After his death in 1985, a group of his friends and colleagues, led by Institute of Culinary Education founder Peter Kump, heeded a call from Julia Child to do something with Beard’s house. Kump organized a fundraising campaign and eventually purchased Beard's townhouse in New York City's Greenwich Village. On November 5, 1986, the James Beard Foundation officially opened the James Beard House “to provide a center for the culinary arts and to continue to foster the interest James Beard inspired in all aspects of food, its preparation presentation, and of course, enjoyment,” according to a press release issued that day. 

Events

More than 250 dining events are held at the James Beard House each year, with dinners taking place almost every night of the week. Many of these events are part of our guest chef series, featuring multi-course tastings, complemented by wine pairings, prepared by acclaimed chefs from around the country. See our complete Beard House events calendar. 

In addition to our dining events, the Beard House hosts free educational programming several times a month. These gatherings include Beard on Books, our monthly literary series, and Enlightened Eaters, a series of readings, speakers, and discussions focusing on health, nutrition, sustainability, and environmental issues. 

Take a Tour

To schedule a tour of the historic James Beard House, please email info@jamesbeard.org. You can also take a visual tour here. To watch visiting Beard House chefs in action, watch the official JBF Kitchen Cam.