Introducing Hotel Bourré Bonne: Just Steps From Whiskey Row

Luxury hotel offers rooftop views, elegance & Southern charm

Hotel Bourré Bonne officially opened its doors at 143 W. Market St. this month.  The $75 million, five-story hotel features 168 rooms and two upmarket restaurants, Steakhouse Bourré Bonne and the Rooftop Bourré Bonne bar and restaurant.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Bourré Bonne

The hotel, which is part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is a luxurious new addition to Louisville’s hospitality scene, designed to reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant future. Guests can enjoy elevated guestrooms, over 11,000 square feet of flexible ballroom space with sweeping city views, an indoor/outdoor bar and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center with a juice bar, and two standout dining venues operated by Bellé Noble Entertainment Group.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Bourré Bonne

The ground-floor luxury-style restaurant, Steakhouse Bourré Bonne, brings to life the rich heritage of Kentucky cuisine with a modern twist by featuring French-inspired cuisine and an extensive bourbon and wine list. Several private dining options are available, along with an Hérmes-inspired booth.

Rooftop Bourré Bonne offers a more casual indoor-outdoor setting with panoramic views adjacent to the outdoor pool and bar.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Bourré Bonne

Louisville is a city that blends authentic history with a new Southern twist. Also known as Bourbon City, and for good reason. With over two dozen bourbon experiences and tasting rooms, with several a few steps away from Hotel Bourré Bonne. Bourbon City’s newest attractions include Bob Dylan’s The Last Refuge, Whiskey Thief Tasting Room, Pursuit Spirts and Monk’s Road Boiler House by Log Still Distillery.

The Last Refuge. Photo courtesy of Go to Louisville

Still to come in 2025, the city will welcome a second location by Pursuit Spirits, Green River Distilling Tasting Room and The Piggy Bank, a tasting room by the WhistlePig brand. From historic distilleries to contemporary bourbon bars, Louisville invites guests to explore the craftsmanship and heritage that celebrates America’s only native spirit.

Following in Bourbon’s footsteps, Bluegrass music was born in Kentucky, deriving from the hills of Appalachia and raised on acoustic instruments and rich traditions. Louisville’s spin on today’s Bluegrass has been coined ‘LouGrass’ and the city offers free, live LouGrass performances every weekend April through October at a variety of venues, hotels, restaurants and neighborhoods. For a schedule of weekly performances, festivals and special events, visit lougrassmusic.com.

While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city’s top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attraction, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.

Celebrate Louisville’s Official Cocktail for a Fortnight

Bourbon City commemorates its signature drink culminating on National Bourbon Day

Set down your Mint Julep, because it’s time to celebrate Louisville’s official cocktail, the Old Fashioned. Proclaimed the city’s official cocktail in 2015 by former Mayor Greg Fischer, Old Fashioned Fortnight highlights the posh and stately Pendennis Club’s original during the first two weeks of June via events, tastings, and specials. Kicking off on June 1, the anniversary of Kentucky’s statehood, and culminating on National Bourbon Day, June 14, the fortnight of festivities underscores Louisville’s whiskey history and booming bourbon culture.

Photo courtesy of Go to Louisville.

Here are some ways to participate in Old Fashioned Fortnight June 1-14:

  • Craft Your Own Cocktail at the Frazier History Museum: The Frazier History Museum and Old Forester are teaming up to showcase Louisville’s official cocktail, the Old Fashioned. Led by Certified Bourbon Stewards, this unique experience guides visitors through making a traditional Old Fashioned with a unique twist while providing some fascinating history about the locally invented libation. Classes are for Bourbon beginners and aficionados alike and can be booked Monday-Saturday, online here.
Photo courtesy of Old Forrester.

  • The Ideal Bartender Experience: Head to Evan Williams Bourbon Experience’s secret Speakeasy as an actor portraying Louisville native Tom Bullock takes you back in time to the prohibition era for a guided Bourbon tasting. Bullock was the first Black American to write and publish a cocktail book and tended bar at the Pendennis Club, where the Old Fashioned was purported to be invented. Book tours online
Photo courtesy of gotolouisville.com
  • Urban Bourbon Trail®: Download the Urban Bourbon Trail® digital passport and visit some of Louisville’s best local Bourbon bars and restaurants, all of which offer their own twist on the Old Fashioned cocktail. Bourbon enthusiasts who check in at six locations will earn a free T-shirt. Visit gotolouisville.com for more information.
Photo courtesy of gotolouisville.com
  • Barrels & Billets: One of Main Street’s newest Whiskey experiences takes place just next door to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where you can embark on your custom bourbon experience. Sample up to six different flavor profiles and build your own customized bottle of whiskey suited to your personal taste. If you love your newly created concoction, you can purchase your own bottle after the experience. Find tour times here.  
Photo courtesy of The Barrel: Bourbon & Bites Food Tour.
  • Beyond The Barrel: Bourbon & Bites Food Tour: Uncover the secrets of Kentucky bourbon and go beyond the barrel to dive into bourbon’s unfiltered history – and learn all the stories they won’t tell you on a Kentucky Bourbon Trail distillery tour. As the sun sets over the vibrant NuLu neighborhood, you’ll visit award-winning restaurants, hidden speakeasies, rooftop terraces, and cozy tasting rooms, Find available dates here.

For additional ways to celebrate Old Fashioned Fortnight, a more detailed history of Tom Bullock, and recipes on how to create the cocktail visit OldFashionedFortnight.com.

Guests can use Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city’s top attractions, culinary hotspots, and bourbon distilleries. Travelers also can learn about attractions, lodging and where to dine at gotolouisville.com.

History of the Old Fashioned

Heaven Hill Distillery Old-Fashioned Cocktail. Photo courtesy of Heaven Hill Distillery.


The Pendennis Club in downtown Louisville has long claimed the invention of the Old Fashioned cocktail since the 1880s. Club member and bourbon distiller popularized it, Col. James E. Pepper, who would go on to introduce the cocktail to the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, leading to its widespread popularity. Louisville native and pre-Prohibition mixologist Tom Bullock included his original Old Fashioned recipe in the preeminent cocktail book, “The Ideal Bartender,” published in 1917.

Classic Old Fashioned

Ingredients

Instructions

Enjoy the Classic Old Fashioned cocktail by Old Forester. From scratch classic build of sugar, bitters, bourbon, stirred to perfection.

Stir with ice, strain into double old-fashioned glass with fresh ice. Garnish with wide orange peel, oils expressed over the cocktail.

Nayarit takes center stage as one of the best places to visit in 2025

This stunning state on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, vibrant cultural experiences, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, making it the ultimate fall and winter escape.

Endless Sunshine and Stunning Beaches

Nayarit boasts over 200 miles of Pacific coastline, with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush mountain backdrops. And no matter the season, the state’s year-round warm climate is a dream come true. Destinations like Sayulita, Punta Mita, and San Blas provide the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class surfing and paddleboarding to sun-soaked afternoons under swaying palm trees.

San Blas

Sayulita, a bohemian surf town, charms with its colorful streets, artisanal shops, and beachfront bars. Punta Mita, on the other hand, is the epitome of luxury with its high-end resorts, championship golf courses, and stunning sunset views over the Pacific. San Blas, a quieter and more traditional town, is known for its historic fort, serene estuaries, and birdwatching—a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Riviera Nayarit – Polo La Patrona – San Pancho

Explore Nayarit’s Magical Towns

Nayarit’s magic extends beyond its beaches. This year, the state has expanded its roster of “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magical Towns) to include Amatlán de Cañas, Ixtlán del Río, and Ahuacatlán, adding to the allure of established favorites like Compostela, Jala, and Mexcaltitan. These towns are recognized for their rich heritage, vibrant traditions, and warm hospitality, making them must-visit destinations for travelers looking to experience the heart of Mexico.

Compostela’s cobblestone streets, historic churches, and vibrant plazas offer a glimpse into Nayarit’s colonial past, while Jala, known for its giant corn, boasts one of the most beautiful baroque churches in the region. Mexcaltitan, often referred to as the “Venice of Mexico,” is an island town known for its unique canals and rich pre-Hispanic history, providing an unforgettable experience.

Culinary Delights and Authentic Mexican Flavors

Nayarit’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes. The state is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly ceviche, aguachile, and grilled fish, best enjoyed at a beachfront palapa with toes in the sand. Visitors can savor local specialties such as zarandeado fish, a traditional dish marinated and grilled to perfection, and try lesser-known delights like tlaxtihuille, a pre-Hispanic dish made from corn and shrimp.

For a more immersive experience, travelers can explore Nayarit’s local food markets, where they can sample tropical fruits, handmade tamales, and regional cheeses, or take a culinary class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes from local chefs.

Outdoor Adventures for Every Traveler

From adrenaline-pumping activities to serene escapes, Nayarit offers endless outdoor adventures. Fall and winter are prime times for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. Eco-tours provide the chance to see these majestic creatures up close, along with playful dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of marine life.

Photo of Nayarit’s Marietas Islands by Christian Frausto Bernal (Wikimedia Commons)

Adventurers can also explore the Sierra Madre Mountains through guided hikes, horseback riding, or ATV tours, immersing themselves in lush jungles, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. For those seeking underwater adventures, Nayarit’s Marietas Islands are a snorkeling and diving paradise, home to vibrant coral reefs and the famous Hidden Beach.

Luxury Accommodations and Wellness Retreats

Nayarit’s wide array of accommodations cater to every type of traveler, from boutique hotels and beachfront bungalows to luxurious resorts with all-inclusive amenities. Wellness seekers will find rejuvenation at the state’s many wellness retreats and spa resorts, which offer yoga classes, spa treatments, and holistic therapies inspired by indigenous traditions.

Punta Mita’s luxury resorts, including the renowned Four Seasons and St. Regis, provide a blend of elegance, seclusion, and top-notch service, perfect for couples and families looking for an elevated experience. For a more intimate stay, Nayarit’s eco-friendly lodges and boutique hotels offer personalized service and a deeper connection to nature.

Cultural Festivals and Vibrant Traditions

Fall and winter in Nayarit are marked by lively festivals and cultural celebrations that showcase the state’s rich traditions. Visitors can experience Day of the Dead festivities in the Magical Towns, attend the colorful patron saint festivals, or explore traditional Huichol art and crafts. The vibrant music, dance, and colorful costumes create an immersive cultural experience that adds a unique layer to any visit.

Discover Nayarit in 2025

Whether you’re chasing endless sunshine, exploring charming villages, indulging in fresh local cuisine, or seeking adventure in nature, Nayarit offers a diverse and unforgettable escape. As one of the best places to visit in 2025, this hidden gem on Mexico’s Pacific Coast invites travelers to explore its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming spirit.

About Nayarit Tourism

Nayarit Tourism promotes the state’s diverse destinations, offering visitors a unique blend of coastal beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. For more information on travel itineraries, accommodations, and experiences, visit Nayarit Tourism.

Cyprus Immerses Visitors in the Slow Travel Trend 

For several years now, especially post-COVID-19 pandemic, the travel industry has seen increasing interest in the concept of “slow travel”, commonly identified as a desire for travelers to leisurely immerse themselves into a destination, connect with locals and fully experience its culture, foods, and traditions.

Cyprus is one of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean with a long history that spans 11,000 years and a rich culture due to its unique geographic position at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Asia, and Africa. Throughout the centuries, Cyprus has been home to Myceanian Greeks, Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans and the British, who have all left behind visible remnants of their passage (especially in their architecture) and created a mosaic of different cultures and periods on the island.

The Republic of Cyprus, with its relatively small geographic area of 3,572 square miles, is a model destination for the concept of slow travel. It boasts the advantage of being one of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean. Steeped in history, the island’s soul can be found in its heartland – filled with hospitable people, enduring traditions, clear waters, diving opportunities, beaches, fresh produce, and ancient foodways. 

To that end, the Heartland of Legends Routes, a project designed by the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism, invites visitors to explore the island’s hidden rural gems, immerse themselves in the mythology and traditions of the land, and enjoy the benefit of slow travel. With its temperate Mediterranean climate, long dry summers and mild winters, separated by short autumn and spring seasons, Cyprus is a destination ripe for discovery year-round!

Examples of some of the thematic Heartland of Legends routes celebrated are: 

  • The Divine Olive Oil Route – This route celebrates the cultivation and production of olive oil which has been a part of Cyprus’s tradition for centuries, with the Greek Orthodox church imbuing olive oil with divine properties. Typically a traditional olive harvest lasts from October to March and, among the heartland villages, visitors will come across a number of restored traditional olive oil presses and may even participate in the harvest. Purchase a bottle to take home – Cypriot extra virgin olive oil is known for its distinctive, fruity aroma and robust flavour. 
  • The Honey Taste Route – Since antiquity, man has associated bees with nature’s regenerative forces and honey has been appreciated for its nutritional value, used for both ceremonial as well as medical purposes. By the early twentieth century, a decline in bee hives prompted Cypriot authorities to introduce modern wooden beehives, with movable frames, to the island. The Honey Taste route visits nine villages in the southeast area of the Troodos mountainous range, where the majority of beekeeping on the island is done. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about Cypriot honey harvesting, taste different varieties and even make their own beeswax candles.
  • Weaving of Dreams Route – Embroidery in Cyprus, influenced by both Byzantine and Venetian patterns as well as new designs, is one of the most important contributions to the island’s intangible heritage. Today, women wanting to revive the interest of the younger generation and bring back to fashion the traditional embroidery have combined the beauty of Lefkaritika lace making and the geometrical and colorful designs of Fythkiotika to create new fashionable items. On the Weaving of Dreams Route, travelers can easily spend a day visiting six of the most picturesque and quaint villages, visiting traditional workshops or boutiques and admiring the collection of bags, dresses, cushions and accessories. 

More information about the Heartland of Legends Routes can be found here: Heartland of Legends | Cyprus is the island of Legends & Stories 

More information about travel to Cyprus can be found at: https://www.visitcyprus.com/ 

Photos courtesy of Visit Cyprus.

EXPERIENCE THE GASTRONOMY OF THE LOIRE VALLEY

Known as the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley has a rich and varied gastronomy, garden-to-plate experiences, and unique culinary specialties. From goat cheese to Michelin-starred experiences to traditionally made vinegar to Tarte Tatin, below are some of the many quintessential culinary experiences of the Loire Valley.

Auberge du XIIème Siècle (Credit: Marieke Gourdin)

In the Loire Valley, more than 170 “Maîtres Restaurateurs” utilize the local produce and ingredients of the region to create their own unique mark on the local gastronomy, while honoring traditional French art de vivre. Les Jardiniers, located in the heart of the Loire Valley’s Rabelais region along an old railway line, received its first Green Michelin Star in 2024. Chef Martin Bolaers brings a true “garden-to-plate” experience, using produce from their extensive vegetable garden and truffle farm to create creative, seasonal dishes.

Château d’Azay-le-Rideau. Credit Benoît Bâlon at Wikimedia Commons.

The Auberge du 12ème Siècle, a 12th-century inn and restaurant located in the charming village of Saché, was awarded a Michelin star in March 2024. Led by chef Kevin Gardien, the restaurant features locally sourced ingredients and innovative cuisine served in a beautifully preserved, medieval dining room.

Photo courtesy of Auberge du 12 ème Siècle 

Culinary specialties of the Loire Valley include the famous upside-down apple tart, Tarte Tatin; slow-cooked meat from the 19th century, Tours rillettes; toasted almonds dating back to the 17th century, Pralines de Montargis; and Orléans vinegar. Orléans vinegar dates back to the Middle Ages, when the city became a hub for vinegar production due to its strategic position as a major wine trading center.

Photo courtesy of Martin-Pouret.

As wines were transported to Paris, some would spoil during the journey and instead of discarding these wines, local merchants in Orléans began converting them into vinegar. Today, Martin-Pouret, a master vinegar-maker since 1797, still makes the famous Orléans vinegar in its traditional method, which allows wine to ferment slowly in wooden barrels. As of October 2024, travelers can now visit Martin-Pouret’s new vinegar factory located right outside of Orléans in Boigny-sur-Bionne, which has just opened to the public for the first time. Visitors can attend workshops to see how the vinegar is made, as well as participate in cooking and mixology classes using the vinegar.

Wine Tasting in a Historic Cave

Caves Monmousseau (Credit: Caves Monmousseau)

Some of the most unique wine tasting experiences in the Loire Valley take place in historic troglodyte caves. “Troglo Degusto” at Domaine des Tabourelles includes an underground tour of 22 miles of historic troglodyte galleries, located below the village of Bourré. After the underground tour, guests can try the domain’s wines along with food pairings.

At Caves Monmousseau, visitors can try sparkling wines that have been perfected for over 130 years, while experiencing a very unique art show in the underground cellars: images are illuminated on the tunnel walls, telling the story of the châteaux of the Loire through a spectacular sound and light show.

Experiencing the Loire Valley’s Goat Cheese

Trefle du Perche (Credit: Clara Ferrand)

The Loire Valley is celebrated for its diverse and high-quality goat cheeses with notable varieties include Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, recognized by its rye straw center; Selles-sur-Cher, with its ash-coated rind and hazelnut flavor; Chavignol, also known as Crottin; Valençay, a pyramid-shaped cheese; and Pouligny Saint-Pierre.

Additionally, the region has introduced Trèfle du Perche, a four-leaf clover-shaped cheese gaining popularity in the region. Open since 2019, Les Passerelles, located in Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, is a museum dedicated to showcasing the region’s heritage and goat cheese. The museum includes an immersive experience into the world of cheese-making, showcasing the history, techniques and traditions behind the production of some of the most famous cheeses in the area.

Announcing this year’s James Beard Award Nominees and Honorees

Announcing the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award nominees, as well as the Impact, Lifetime Achievement, and Humanitarian of the Year Award honorees, for the James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One. Winners will be revealed at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Eliesa Johnson Photography / JBF

Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, the James Beard Awards® is upholding its role as the nation’s foremost culinary honors by evolving its awards structure. The 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards is introducing three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service. As an extension of the James Beard Foundation’s impact work and advocacy policy prioritieswe are also proud to inaugurate the Impact Awards, which recognize individuals and/or organizations advancing standards for a more equitable, sustainable, and economically viable restaurant industry and food system. Impact Award honorees will be acknowledged at a ceremony in Chicago on Sunday, June 15, as well as on stage at the Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 16, along with the Lifetime Achievement and Humanitarian of the Year Award honorees.

_©-Eliesa-Johnson-Photography

Tickets for the 35th anniversary of the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago can be purchased here beginning at 3 P.M. ET on Wednesday, April 2. The Awards will be broadcast live on Eater. We encourage you to learn more about the James Beard Awards® categories, policies, and procedures here.

Check out the nominees and honorees below!

Christina Nguyen, Hai Hai, Minneapolis, MN. Galdones-Photography.


Restaurant and Chef Award Nominees


Outstanding Restaurateur

  • Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, Atomic Workshop (The Anchovy Bar, State Bird Provisions, and The Progress), San Francisco, CA
  • Sue Chin and Jason Chin, Good Salt Restaurant Group (Seito Sushi, Reyes Mezcaleria, The Osprey, and others), Orlando, FL
  • Scott Drewno and Danny Lee, The Fried Rice Collective (Anju, Chiko, and I Egg You), Washington, D.C.
  • Allison Gibson and Cara Tobin, Honey Road and Gray Jay, Burlington, VT
  • Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr, Frenchette, Le Veau d’Or, and Le Rock, New York, NY
©-Galdones-Photography


Outstanding Chef presented by Hilton

  • Lisa Becklund, FarmBar, Tulsa, OK
  • Gabriel Kreuther, Gabriel Kreuther, New York, NY
  • Josh Niernberg, Bin 707, Grand Junction, CO
  • Cassie Piuma, Sarma, Somerville, MA
  • Jungsik Yim, Jungsik, New York, NY


Outstanding Restaurant presented by Acqua Panna® Natural Spring Water

Photo courtesy of Galit.
  • Coquine, Portland, OR
  • Frasca Food and Wine, Boulder, CO
  • Galit, Chicago, IL
  • Nonesuch, Oklahoma City, OK
  • Oberlin, Providence, RI


Emerging Chef presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water

Photo courtesy of Lagniappe Bakery.
  • Kaitlin Guerin, Lagniappe Bakehouse, New Orleans, LA
  • Phila Lorn, Mawn, Philadelphia, PA
  • Nikhil Naiker, NIMKI, Providence, RI
  • Jane Sacro Chatham, Vicia, St. Louis, MO
  • RJ Yoakum, Georgie, Dallas, TX
Photo Jane Simon Ammeson


Best New Restaurant

  • Alma Fonda Fina, Denver, CO
  • Atoma, Seattle, WA
  • Bûcheron, Minneapolis, MN
  • Ema, Houston, TX
  • Fet-Fisk, Pittsburgh, PA
  • Mābo, Dallas, TX
  • Mita, Washington, D.C.
  • Ômo by Jônt, Winter Park, FL
  • Penny, New York, NY
  • The Union, Helena, MT
Photo Jane Simon Ammeson.


Outstanding Bakery

  • Atelier Ortega, Jackson Hole, WY
  • Gusto Bread, Long Beach, CA
  • JinJu Patisserie, Portland, OR
  • Starship Bagel, Dallas and Lewisville, TX
  • Super Secret Ice Cream, Bethlehem, NH


Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker

  • Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit, Washington, D.C.
  • Cat Cox, Country Bird Bakery, Tulsa, OK
  • April Franqueza, The Dining Room at High Hampton, Cashiers, NC
  • Crystal Kass, Valentine, Phoenix, AZ
  • Carolyn Nugent and Alen Ramos, Poulette Bakeshop, Parker, CO
Photo courtesy of Valentine.


Outstanding Hospitality presented by American Airlines

  • Archipelago, Seattle, WA
  • Aria, Atlanta, GA
  • Atomix, New York, NY
  • Harbor House Inn, Elk, CA
  • Mixtli, San Antonio, TX
©-Galdones-Photography


Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

  • Bar Brava, Minneapolis, MN
  • Campo at Los Poblanos, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM
  • Charleston, Baltimore, MD
  • MARCH, Houston, TX
  • Strong Water, Anaheim, CA


Outstanding Bar

Photo courtesy of Kumiko.
  • Kumiko, Chicago, IL
  • Scotch Lodge, Portland, OR
  • The Lovers Bar at Friday Saturday Sunday, Philadelphia, PA
  • Water Witch, Salt Lake City, UT
  • Wolf Tree, White River Junction, VT


Best New Bar

Photo courtesy of Identidad Cocktail Bar
  • Agency, Milwaukee, WI
  • Bar Colette, Dallas, TX
  • Identidad Cocktail Bar, San Juan, PR
  • Merai, Brookline, MA
  • ViceVersa, Miami, FL


Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service

  • Jacob Brown, Lazy Bear, San Francisco, CA
  • Jose Medina Camacho, Adiõs, Birmingham, AL
  • Arjav Ezekiel, Birdie’s, Austin, TX
  • Cassandra Felix, Daniel, New York, NY
  • Cristie Norman, Delilah, Las Vegas, NV


Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service

  • McLain Hedges and Mary Allison Wright, Yacht Club, Denver, CO
  • Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez, Superbueno, New York, NY
  • Dave Newman, Pint + Jigger, Honolulu, HI
  • Tobin Shea, Redbird, Los Angeles, CA
  • Mike Stankovich, Longfellow, Cincinnati, OH
©-Eliesa-Johnson-Photography-



Best Chefs presented by Capital One (by region)


Best Chef: California

  • Daniel Castillo, Heritage Barbecue, San Juan Capistrano, CA
  • Richard Lee, Saison, San Francisco, CA
  • Tara Monsod, ANIMAE, San Diego, CA
  • Kosuke Tada, Mijoté, San Francisco, CA
  • Jon Yao, Kato, Los Angeles, CA


Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH)

Photo courtesy of The Cook’s House


Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (DC, DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA)

  • Henji Cheung, Queen’s English, Washington, D.C.
  • Carlos Delgado, Causa and Amazonia, Washington, D.C.
  • Jesse Ito, Royal Sushi & Izakaya, Philadelphia, PA
  • Dan Richer, Razza, Jersey City, NJ
  • Amanda Shulman, Her Place Supper Club, Philadelphia, PA
©-Galdones-Photography


Best Chef: Midwest (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD, WI)

  • Shigeyuki Furukawa, Kado no Mise, Minneapolis, MN
  • Diane Moua, Diane’s Place, Minneapolis, MN
  • Loryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box, Webster Groves, MO
  • Karyn Tomlinson, Myriel, St. Paul, MN
  • David Utterback, Ota and Yoshitomo, Omaha, NE


Best Chef: Mountain (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY)

  • Joshua Adams, Campione, Livingston, MT
  • Salvador Alamilla, Amano, Caldwell, ID
  • Brandon Cunningham, The Social Haus, Greenough, MT
  • David Wells, The Tasting Room at Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa, Pray, MT
  • Penelope Wong, Yuan Wonton, Denver, CO
©-Galdones-Photography


Best Chef: New York State

  • Nasim Alikhani, Sofreh, Brooklyn, NY
  • Ryan Fernandez, Southern Junction Barbecue, Buffalo, NY
  • Eiji Ichimura, Sushi Ichimura, New York, NY
  • Atsushi Kono, Kono, New York, NY
  • Vijay Kumar, Semma, New York, NY


Best Chef: Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT)

  • Avery Buck, May Day, Burlington, VT
  • Sky Haneul Kim, Gift Horse, Providence, RI
  • Brian Lewis, The Cottage, Westport, CT
  • Erin Miller, Urban Hearth, Cambridge, MA
  • Derek Wagner, Nicks on Broadway, Providence, RI
© Eliesa Johnson Photography


Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific (AK, HI, OR, WA)

  • Jay Blackinton, Houlme, Orcas Island, WA
  • Joshua Dorcak, MÄS, Ashland, OR
  • Ryan Roadhouse, Nodoguro, Portland, OR
  • Beau Schooler, In Bocca Al Lupo, Juneau, AK
  • Timothy Wastell, Antica Terra, Amity, OR


Best Chef: South (AL, AR, FL, LA, MS, PR)

  • Nando Chang, Itamae AO, Miami, FL
  • Matthew Cooper, Conifer, Bentonville, AR
  • Kevin Garcia, La Faena AgroCocina, Guaynabo, PR
  • Angel David Moreno Zayas, El Gallo Pinto, Guayama, PR
  • Rafael Rios, Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico, Bentonville, AR


Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

  • Noam Bilitzer, MeeshMeesh Mediterranean, Louisville, KY
  • Sara Bradley, freight house, Paducah, KY
  • Jake Howell, Peninsula, Nashville, TN
  • Silver Iocovozzi, Neng Jr.’s, Asheville, NC
  • Robbie Robinson, City Limits Barbeque, West Columbia, SC
©-Eliesa-Johnson-Photography


Best Chef: Southwest (AZ, NM, NV, OK)

  • Olivier Bouzerand, Fait Maison, Edmond, OK
  • Yotaka Martin, Lom Wong, Phoenix, AZ
  • Sarah Thompson, Casa Playa, Las Vegas, NV
  • Eleazar Villanueva, Restaurant de Joël Robuchon, Las Vegas, NV
  • Zack Walters, Sedalia’s Oyster & Seafood, Oklahoma City, OK


Best Chef: Texas

  • Thomas Bille, Belly of the Beast, Spring, TX
  • Emmanuel Chavez, Tatemó, Houston, TX
  • Emil Oliva, Leche de Tigre, San Antonio, TX
  • Regino Rojas, Purépecha, Dallas, TX
  • Michael Anthony Serva, Bordo, Marfa, TX



Achievement Awards


Impact Awards

The 2025 Impact Award honorees are:


Humanitarian of the Year Award

The 2024 Humanitarian of the Year Award honoree is Chad Houser, founder and CEO of Café Momentum, a Dallas-based nonprofit restaurant with multiple locations nationwide dedicated to equipping justice-involved teens aged 15-19 with skills, education, and employment opportunities in the culinary industry.


Lifetime Achievement Award

Toni Tipton-Martin photo courtesy of “When Southern Women Cook”

The 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award honoree is esteemed author, culinary journalist, and activist Toni Tipton-Martin.

Discover Oxmoor Bourbon Company, now an official partner of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®

Oxmoor Bourbon Co. recently announced that they are now an official partner of the world-renowned Kentucky Bourbon Trail® program, offering a new opportunity to explore where Kentucky’s Bourbon history began. A great option for those looking for something beyond the typical distillery tour — and perfect for history buffs — Oxmoor Bourbon Co. in Louisville interprets the story of a Kentucky farm as it transformed along with the state, striving to tell the story of all the people who lived and worked on the land through preservation and education. For more information, visit https://oxmoorbourbon.com/

“After two decades in the spirits business, I thought I had seen it all — but a place with such rich, undiscovered history in the category, so carefully maintained in its place in Kentucky and American history was unimaginable to me,” said general manager Rosser Lomax. “Oxmoor Bourbon Company is tied to the very origin of bourbon and how it came to be, and being part of something that actively works to preserve and share that history is an honor of the highest order. Building the Oxmoor Bourbon Company has been such an exciting journey, and we are so excited to share this wonderful history and incredible space with friends old and new, near and far.” 

During the immersive experience, visitors stroll through three centuries of architecture and learn about the five generations of legal scholars who have called Oxmoor home, the “why” and “how” behind the rules of bourbon told on every distillery tour and the almost-forgotten people who codified those rules into law to protect the good name of America’s only native spirit.  

Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens designed in 1911 by one of the country’s first female landscape architects and the largest collection of preserved outbuildings in the region.  

Each tour concludes with a tasting of the exclusive Oxmoor Bourbon Private Label — a private stock bottling in the family tradition, awarded a gold medal by the prestigious John Barleycorn Society. Bottles of the bourbon are available for sale following the tour. Guests also have the option to enjoy a selection of cocktails in the breathtaking family library and gardens following tours.  

Tours are offered Tuesdays through Saturdays at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Guests must be 21+ to participate. Space is limited on each tour, so reservations are required — to reserve a tour, visit here

Oxmoor Bourbon Company also welcomes inquiries regarding private event bookings and corporate events and is excited to host a variety of special events and private tastings throughout 2025. 

“Visiting Oxmoor Bourbon Company is a rare and fascinating opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the history of bourbon and of Kentucky, while also supporting the preservation and the advancement of both,” said Cordell Lawrence, CEO of Eastern Light Distilling and advisor to Oxmoor Bourbon Company. “With my extensive background in the bourbon industry, I’ve experienced countless bourbon tourism offerings, and I can confidently say that the tour offered by Oxmoor Bourbon Company is unlike any other. It’s been a thrill to help bring this experience to life and I’m eager to see more Kentuckians and tourists alike explore all that Oxmoor has to offer as the latest addition to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.” 

Last June, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail celebrated its 25th anniversary, welcoming millions of visitors a year to more than 60 experiences across the state. According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, more than 80% of all Kentucky Bourbon Trail visitors come from outside Kentucky. Bourbon is a $9 billion economic and tourism powerhouse for Kentucky, generating more than 23,100 jobs with $2.2 billion in salaries and benefits. 

About Oxmoor Bourbon: 

Step back in time with Oxmoor Bourbon and explore where Kentucky’s Bourbon history began. This first-of-its-kind historical tour and tasting experience takes place at Oxmoor, with buildings constructed before the Commonwealth of Kentucky had a constitution. Learn about the five generations of legal scholars who have called Oxmoor home, the “why” and “how” behind the rules of bourbon told on every distillery tour and the almost-forgotten figures who codified those rules into law to protect the good name of America’s only native spirit. Guests see the home’s three sections, constructed in 1791, 1829, and 1928, with furniture and family belongings as the family left them.

Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens designed in 1911 by one of the country’s first female landscape architects and the largest collection of preserved outbuildings in the region. The tour includes a tasting of the exclusive Oxmoor Bourbon Private Label and the option to enjoy a selection of cocktails in the breathtaking family library. The site interprets the story of a Kentucky farm that has transformed alongside the state and strives to tell the story of all the people who lived and worked on the land through preservation and education. Multiple tour times offered Tuesdays through Saturdays; must be 21+ to participate.

Visit oxmoorbourbon.com for information or to book. 

The Way We Used to Travel

Let’s turn on the time machine and travel back 219 years and a few days to March 29, 1806. That’s when Congress approved the concept of aNational Road.” Signed into law by President Thomas Jefferson, the National Road as it still is known today, was America’s first federally funded highway, designed to connect the Potomac and Ohio rivers and serve as the major path westward for countless settlers eager to discover the opportunities they hoped awaited them on the American frontier.

It took five years after approval for the road to be constructed, but it was a big deal when completed. People, animals and covered wagons assembled in Cumberland, Maryland, ready to head west on trails that had long been traveled by the region’s Indigenous Peoples and by a young George Washington in the 1740s in his early career as a surveyor.

After more than two decades of construction (as with modern transportation projects, there were plenty of problems and delays), the road ultimately stretched about 620 miles, from Maryland to Illinois, passing through Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio and Indiana along the way. The idea of this first “road trip” – which, let’s face it, was a lot less fun and way more dangerous 200 years ago than it is today – all began in Cumberland, in the scenic region known as “The Mountain Side of Maryland.”

A bustling place back then, Cumberland, after undergoing a $17.2 million renovation/restoration last fall, is again a premier destination, offering visitors both outdoor and urban adventures coupled with early American history as well. Stops to see include  “Mile Marker 0” monument at Canal Place National Heritage Park, the incredible Allegany Museum with its stellar “Crossroads of America” exhibit that tells the story of the region’s role in America’s early westward expansion, as well as the small towns that played major roles in American history. For more information, take a peek at MDMountainside.com.

And if you’d like to follow a “road trip” itinerary along America’s first federally funded highway, here’s a starting point: America’s First Road Trip.

Theater goers learn about female Titanic survivor during a special show in Munster.

By Guest Blogger Eloise Valadez.

Titanic play takes the stage at Theatre at the Center where a new survivor is discovered during a special show in Munster, Indiana.

Actress Leslie Goddard relays the story of Violet Jessop, a cabin maid crew member on the Titanic, in the one-woman show “Violet Jessop: Titanic Survivor” at Theatre at the Center. The play runs through March 30.

Jessop, who died in 1971, also survived the sinking of the HHMS Britannic. She was one of the passengers who obtained a lifeboat seat. Goddard has been portraying interesting and pioneering women on stage through the years such as Jackie Kennedy, Eleanor Roosevelt, Julia Child and Amelia Earhart.

Image courtesy of Theatre in the Middle.

During the play, Goddard talks about both the Titanic and Britannic tragedies as well as other aspects of the cabin maid’s life. During a past interview, Goddard said she enjoys researching the lives of strong, creative, and influential women.

Video courtesy of Blue Star Line

Goddard, who took an interest in theater as a child, has undergraduate and master’s degrees in theatre as well as a PHD in history. The actress previously brought her shows on Amelia Earhart and Julia Child to Theatre at the Center.

Image courtesy of Theatre in the Middle.

In addition to the performance, theater goers can make a reservation for a Titanic-themed meal created by 10Forty Banquets. The meal is inspired by the final meal served on the Titanic. Cost for the meal is an additional $30.

FYI: “Violet Jessop: Titanic Survivor” runs to March 30 at Theatre at the Center, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. Tickets are $40. Call 219-836-3255  or TheatreAtTheCenter.com.

Top photo courtesy of Theatre at the Center.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Rousing performance of ‘Joseph’ enlivens Marriott Theatre stage in Lincolnshire

Post by guest blogger Eloise Valadez.

Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary season. The Andrew Lloyd Webber hit musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” opened this monumental season and the show continues through March 30.

Courtesy of the Marriott Theatre.

The storyline in “Joseph” relays the biblical story of the young dreamer who is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. Joseph is his father’s favorite son and his brothers constantly have it in for him. But by the end of the production the tables are turned with the brothers begging to be forgiven by Joseph. The message in this musical not only revolves around dreams but themes of courage, loyalty and forgiveness.

Starring as Joseph is Devin DeSantis with Kaitlyn Davis as the Narrator and Lorenzo Rush Jr. as the Elvis-like Pharoah.

The strong cast of this production of “Joseph” moves this charming musical along at a swiftly moving pace. The production is a winner with engaging musical numbers and much humor. Songs such as “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door” are highlighted.

Photo courtesy of the Marriott Theatre.

In addition to the show, Marriott Theatre has debuted themed meals for each of the shows this season. The meals will be featured in the property’s Three Embers Restaurant. Currently, the eatery is known as Joseph’s Dream Grill, featuring items such as Nile Red Lentil Soup, Joseph’s Beef Schwarma and Pharoah’s Memphis Style BBQ Pizza. For more information on the restaurant, call 847-634-0100.

FYI: “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” continues to March 30 at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.