“I believe we can live in a peaceful world where everyone has what they need to thrive and we can all experience the beauty of our diverse planet,” writes Mai Nguyen, a farmer and social justice activist in Sonoma, California known as Farmer Mai who won the James Beard Leadership Award this year. “To make that world, we have problems to solve: climate change and social inequality.
“I farm to undo climate change and strengthen our food sovereignty. I facilitate democracy because we must include everyone in determining how we organize ourselves and resources. I mobilize communities and work in coalitions to create policies that advance racially equitable, ecological farming and to advance land justice such that we have the places to root down agroecological farming.”
Farmer Mai, a heirloom grain farmer using exclusively agroecological farming practices, award-winning intersectional activist, speaker and consultant, believes that every seed remembers
Farmer Mai in the press room at the James Beard Foundation Awards 2024.
“Growing heirloom seeds saved from the same soil and climate, even as we face climate change’s extreme droughts and floods, means that the seeds remember how to adapt,” she writes. “Seeds also carry our stories–where we came from and what nourished our ancestors. The heirloom grains I grow come from many parts of the world by the hands of people immigrating or escaping. These seeds connect them to a place and people as they make a new home here. The diversity of seed reflects the diversity of our society.”
Her grains include Marquis, hard red winter wheat with the following profile:
“This wheat tastes like a classic hard red with strong nutty, toasty, and sweet aromas. This wheat was selected from over 30 results of crossing Red Fife and an early ripening Indian wheat known as Hard Red Calcutta. It became the primary wheat grown in Canada in the 1900s, yet grows surprisingly well in coastal California.”
Farmer Mai also grows Rouge de Bordeaux , another hard red winter wheat, comes from Southwestern France and was a popular bread flour among 19th century French bakers.
Originally from England, Chiddam Blanc de Mars, another heritage wheat received its greatest reception in France and was documented in 1864. Turn of the century Parisians preferred Chiddam Blanc de Mars for their baguettes.
“I grew this variety for my mom who loves French baguettes,” says Farmer Mai.
Among her ryes are Abruzzi Rye, named for the region of Italy from which it originated, Mai describes the aromas of this rye as unique for being deeper and richer than its spicier, more sour Northern relatives.
Farmer Mai offers subscriptions to purchase her flour and/or wheatberries.
Among Farmer Mai’s activism is the concept of breaking away from conventional farming.
“Breaking with convention allows us to grow food in ways that replenish the soil, water, and air while holistically supporting those who work and eat from the land. The people who work the land and eat the food are part of a cost-benefit calculation, and the land is forced into submission through tillage and toxic chemicals. The results have been widening social inequality and environmental destruction. Farmer Mai employs local, skilled farmers during the harvest season, and compensation is based on more than a minimum wage but the area’s living wage.
Just discovered this article I wrote years ago about Fabio Viviani and Fabio’s 30-Minute Italian (St. Martin’s Press), which was new at the time, on the website “We the Italians.”
Fabio, best known for his participation in Bravo’s Top Chef seasons 5 and 8 – earning the “Fan Favorite” title -both his on-screen appearances and off-screen successes have propelled him to become one of the most influential culinary and hospitality names in the country.
A recurring guest on national television shows such as Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, and numerous Food Network Shows, such as Cutthroat Kitchen: All-Star Tournament, which he won, off-screen Fabio is a regular headliner at global food events, and he has authored four successful cookbooks: Café Firenze Cookbook, New York Times Best-Seller Fabio’s Italian Kitchen, and Fabio’s American Home Kitchen.
Fabio’s online presence draws millions of viewers yearly with his own cooking show, Fabio’s Kitchen, now in Season 5.
He also has numerous restaurants throughout the United States.
“If hot fudge wanted to be a cake, this would be it,” writes Fabio in the introduction to this recipe which is both sinfully delicious and sinfully easy to make. “Yes, it’s a classic sponge cake, but a classic that is rich and chocolaty with hints of cinnamon, rum and espresso that bring home the indulgent chocolaty-ness of it all. I sometimes call this Butterscotch Chocolate Cake because after it’s baked it’s drizzled with a thick caramel sauce that’s lightly salted. Sinful.”
For the cake:
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons baking soda
¾ cup cocoa powder 2 cups sugar
2 cups flour
½ cup buttermilk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup canola oil 2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla, extracted from pod
2 teaspoons rum 1 cup hot water
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
For the caramel:
Splash of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon fleur de sel
¼ cup butter
½ cup heavy cream, plus 2 tablespoons
1 cup sugar
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch round baking pans. Set aside.
In a large stand mixer, combine the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, sugar and flour. Once combined, add buttermilk, heavy cream, oil, eggs, vanilla and rum; mix until smooth. Stir together the hot water and espresso powder. Pour slowly into the cake batter and stir until completely incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, until baked through and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool down completely.
While cakes are cooking, combine the vanilla extract, fleur de sel, butter, ½ cup of heavy cream and sugar in a sauce pot. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5–6 minutes. Cook until caramel in color, then add the final 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Stir for 20 seconds and let cool before glazing cake.
Have a question, story idea, or just want to chat, reach me at janeammeson@gmail.com
Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, the spectacular Pacific coastline of the state of Nayarit, is one of the leading vacation destinations in Mexico. However, travelers may be curious to know that for as popular and well-traveled, there’s still more undiscovered treasures to explore. On that list is San Blas, a small coastal village beloved as a local favorite but frequently off the tourist trail for U.S. and Canadian travelers.
Known for its ecotourism, undeveloped beaches, seafood cuisine, and easy access to adventure and cultural tourism as well as being steeped in natural beauty, wildlife, cultural heritage, and history, San Blas is a must.
Nestled on the northern part of Nayarit’s west coast, the small seaside village is approximately 90 miles north of Nuevo Nayarit It is roughly an hour from the Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ).
Its distant allowed the four miles of beachfront in San Blas to remain pristine, rugged, and wild. As such, San Blas is a thriving environment for eco-tourism and wildlife. Come discover the navigable canals surrounded by mangroves, the small islands, and the annual arrival of more than 300 migratory birds — perfect for bird watching.
A visit to this gem on the Pacific Coast of Mexico wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the San Blas beaches. El Borrego, whose fine golden sands stretch for two miles, is one of the most frequented destinations, particularly among seasoned surfers. After a quick boat ride, visitors can explore the wonders of Isla del Rey, a paradise of natural beauty.
Speaking of surfing, not far from San Blas is Playa Las Islitas Nayarit, a secluded beach on Bahía de Matanchén renowned for some of the best surfing conditions in Mexico. All along this beach, you’ll find traditional thatched-roof huts serving up a variety of delicious traditional dishes such as freshly prepared fish and local seafood from the region.
Also essential is a visit to the Piedra Blanca, a small rock formation off the coast of San Blas Mexico where the image of the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Virgin —also known as La Marinera— is found. This virgin is the patron saint of sailors, and San Blas residents pay homage to her every year on October 7. The Piedra Blanca is also an important ceremonial center for the native Huichol people.
But the beaches are just the beginning when it comes to the natural beauty of San Blas. Natural wonders include a tropical marsh featuring the El Pozo estuary, the La Tovara National Park, and the San Cristóbal River. La Tovara National Park is located just 1.2 miles from San Blas Mexico and is one of the region’s most impressive natural attractions
Within the national park, visitors have the opportunity to explore by boat and appreciate the lush mangrove forests, home to turtles and birds. Visitors can also appreciate the floating wooden homes, occupied by the first settlers of the region. Further down the San Cristobal River is a community crocodile sanctuary, where reptiles and other animal species are the subjects of wildlife research and conservation.
San Blas has a fascinating history. The origins date back to the late 17th century when the port was constructed as a shipyard and point of departure for the colonization expeditions of the Spanish Crown. The first maritime customs house in Pacific Mexico was established herein San Blas, and the town became the most important port of the region.
Visitors can still see the historic buildings with their impressive architecture, such as the Contaduría stronghold constructed in 1770. A few steps away are the ruins of the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Temple, constructed in 1769. The building near the pier where the Culture House now stands was once the Maritime Customs House, erected in the 19th century to control the traffic of merchandise that came through the port.
When it comes to hotels in San Blas, it’s all about local, sustainable, charm, and intimacy. You won’t find any international chains or all-inclusive hotels here. That’s because San Blas is all about keeping accommodations locally owned and environmentally friendly.
Hotels like Hotel Garza Canela or Hacienda Flamingos are more indicative of the accommodation offerings, focusing on attention to detail, personal touches, spectacular local gastronomy, and beautiful ocean views.
San Blas, with its haciendas, historic buildings, quiet streets, family restaurants serving local cuisine, and beautiful beaches as well as frequent whale sightings and plenty of activities, San Blas is an immersive experience, a wonder off the beaten path. It is, in other words, an undiscovered paradise.
The Italian region of Emilia Romagna is hosing the Grand Départ of the 111th edition of the Tour de France 2024 on June 29, 2024, for the first time ever.
The first three stages of the iconic cycling race will travel through the breathtaking region of Emilia Romagna, marking the first time in its history that the Tour de France is starting on Italian soil. Beginning in Florence on June 29, 2024, the race promises an unforgettable
experience as it traverses through the scenic landscapes and historic cities of Emilia Romagna.
Stage #1: Florence – Rimini (206 km, 3800 meters of altitude difference)
The first stage sets off from Florence, leading cyclists through a challenging route that crosses the Apennines. This 206 km stage with 3800 meters of altitude difference features
picturesque locations such as Premilcuore, Strada San Zeno, Pianetto, Santa Sofia, San Piero in Bagno, Quarto, Sarsina, Mercato Saraceno, Perticara, Novafeltria, the City of San Marino (RSM), and Cerasolo, culminating in an exhilarating sprint along the Rimini seafront.
Stage #2: Cesenatico – Bologna (200 km)
The second stage starts in the renowned cycling hub of Cesenatico in Emilia Romagna. The route includes several notable Emilia Romagna cities: Cervia, Milano Marittima, Savio, Classe, Ravenna, San Michele,Godo, Russi, Mezzeno, Faenza, Errano, Rontana, Riolo Terme, Ponticelli, Imola, Toscanella, Castel San Pietro Terme, Ozzano dell’Emilia, San Lazzaro di Savena,
Pianoro, and Casalecchio di Reno. The final circuit in Bologna includes a grueling climb on the San Luca hill, promising a thrilling finish.
Stage #3: Piacenza –Turin (225 km)
The third stage, spanning 225 km, begins in Piacenza, Emilia Romagna, and takes riders across the heart of the Po Valley. This mostly flat route borrows some roads from the spring classic
“Milan-Sanremo” and crosses into Lombardy and Piedmont.
The Grand Départ in Emilia Romagna is not just a sporting event but an extraordinary spectacle that crosses 38 locations in the region. Known for its deep-rooted cycling traditions, Emilia Romagna will witness a significant media impact and a surge in related activities. Over 200
TV channels worldwide will broadcast the event, with an estimated 1.8 million spectators along the route between Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Piedmont. The influx of visitors is expected to generate over 300,000 hotel stays during the three stages, contributing to an economic impact exceeding 120 million euros.
Emilia Romagna, already recognized as a top cycling destination, will soon add the prestigious title of Tour de France destination to its list of accolades.
For travelers who are inspired by the Tour de France coverage during these first three stages, here are five cycling experiences to try during a future visit to Emilia Romagna:1. CiClovia del Santerno (All levels)
Located in the Imola area, this 44-km route connects Mordano and Castel del Rio, offering a picturesque ride through the Santerno River Valley.
2. Via della Lana e della Seta MTB (Experienced cyclists)
This 130-km route between Bologna and Prato immerses cyclists in the history and beauty of the Tuscan Emilian Apennines.
3. Romagna Toscana Cycling Route (Medium)
A 126-km path linking Bagno di Romagna and
4. Ciclovia sulle tracce degli Etruschi (Mountain biking)
A trail that combines natural and historical beauty, tracing the footsteps of the ancient Etruscans across Emilia Romagna.
5. Dante’s Cycle Path (Experienced cyclists)
A 252.6-km route that celebrates Dante’s heritage, connecting Ravenna with picturesque villages and stunning vistas.
How to get there:
Emilia Romagna Region is in the North of Italy, just over the Appenine Mountains from Tuscany, with a number of airlines connecting Bologna to the rest of the world.
More info on: https://emiliaromagnaturismo.it/en
For additional information on the Grand Depart in Emilia Romagna, please visit:
Sol y Luna (Cusco): They have forty-three casitas (houses) to accommodate families. They are surrounded by gardens filled with flora native to the Sacred Valley and all face the Andes Mountains. They offer experiences such as tandem paragliding, cycling or hiking through terraced fields, horseback riding to remote villages and kayaking.
La Base Lamay (Cusco): The main purpose of the daily activities they offer is all about conservation and sustainable development through responsible tourism in Lamay. Offerings Family fun offerings include activities such as hikes in the mountains, experiences in local communities, fly fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, farming and culinary activities, as well asinteractive experiences in the village.
Colca Lodge (Arequipa): Their family suites are perfect for those traveling with children. Consider requesting activities such as lunches cooked by the riverside near the hot springs, visiting an alpaca ranch and condor room, hiking to a pre-Inca ruins near the hotel, or just relaxing treatment at the thermal spa.
Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica (Madre de Dios): An ecological luxury lodge. It offers a varied selection of excursions, including a visit to the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway, a system of bridges 30 meters above the ground. In 2013, Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica was chosen by National Geographic Traveler magazine among the top 25 eco-lodges in the world.
Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort (Paracas): They offer family-friendly accommodations with furnished terraces, sea views and garden views. There’s a Kids’ Club as well as an entertainment area for children, where staff organizes fun activities indoors and outdoors.
Decameron (Lima and Tumbes): It is a family-friendly resort with many activities throughout the day. In Peru, you can find them in Lima and Tumbres. You can enjoy activities such as shows, water sports and other sports, in addition to having specialized restaurants, unlimited food, beverages and alcoholic drinks.
FOOD
Traveling with kids can be an adventure, especially when it comes to mealtime. Peru offers an array of delicious and child-friendly dishes that will have your little ones asking for seconds.
Kick off your flavorful journey with a few sips of Inca Kola. A soft drink is a great special treat for kids, especially those who don’t have much soda at home. This soda is sweet and fruity—channeling its main ingredient, lemon verbena. Inca Kola has been around since 1935, so it’s definitely the perfect way to get a swig of authenticity during your trip!
Next on the menu is lomo saltado, a mouthwatering stir-fry that blends tender strips of beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries, served over a bed of rice. It’s like a Peruvian twist on beef and fries—and who doesn’t like fries?
For those with a sweet tooth, Peru offers a delightful treat called picarones. These fluffy doughnuts made from sweet potato and pumpkin are fried to golden perfection and drizzled with a decadent syrup made from molasses and spices. It’s a dessert that will have both kids and adults coming back for more. You also can’t miss out on classic churros, the sweet treat made from crispy fried dough covered in cinnamon sugar—and a side of chocolate dipping sauce.
To introduce your young ones to the bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine, try the savory delight that is anticuchos—or grilled skewers of marinated beef heart or chicken, seasoned to perfection and served with a side of roasted potatoes.
Peru for kids is an immersion into a different culture –a learning experience for the entire family from strolling through cobblestone city streets, exploring ancient remains, and hiking through Peru’s lovely to sampling the different foods and meeting new people. It’s more than that as well. It’s a way to bond with your family and also enjoy what the world has to offer.
Expanded Programming Offers Visitors an Inside Look into the World of Whiskey Making, Beam Family History, and Eight Generations of Craftsmanship.
The James B. Beam Distilling Co., home of the World’s #1 bourbon Jim Beam®, is excited to announce several new visitor experiences and an expanded events calendar this year. New offerings include brand-specific consumer experiences for Knob Creek® and Jim Beam® and for the first time ever, consumers will have access to the state-of-the-art Fred B. Noe Distillery with a limited series of “Behind The Beam” events where guests can enjoy a personalized tour and tasting led by one of our Master Distillers, Fred or Freddie Noe.
These newly designed experiences have been thoughtfully curated to make guests feel part of the First Family of Bourbon and immerse them into their 229 years of whiskey-making expertise. In 2022, The James B. Beam Distilling Co. underwent a multi-million-dollar campus renovation including a revamp of the American Outpost, opening of The Fred B. Noe Distillery, and adding The Kitchen Table restaurant, further establishing the distillery as a must-visit tourism destination. Since then, daily visits have increased by 60%, and last year alone, The James B. Beam Distilling Co. welcomed over 126,000 visitors. This is part of a larger post-pandemic tourism trend and travel boom, and according to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail surpassed a record-breaking two million visitors in 2022.
For the first time in 229 years, father and son Master Distillers are working alongside one another to continue inventing and reinventing the American Whiskey category. Fred Noe, 7th Generation Master Distiller, oversees some of the most well-known whiskeys in the world including Jim Beam®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek®; while his son Freddie, 8th Generation Master Distiller is at the helm of innovation in American Whiskey and oversees The Fred B. Noe Distillery which opened its doors in 2021 for small batch production of Booker’s®, Baker’s®, Little Book®, Legent®, and more.
The James B. Beam Distilling Co. Visitor Experiences
In addition to the new tours outlined below, guests can still book the classics like the Basil Hayden Culinary Tasting Experience, Family Reserve Tasting, Beam Made Bourbon Distillery Tour & Tasting, and Meet the Family Tasting. A list of tours can be found here.
· Behind the Beam ($350): Get a glimpse behind the scenes at the production methods that helped the First Family of Bourbon build the world’s favorite Bourbon and an innovative portfolio of small-batch whiskeys. In Behind the Beam, guests are guided on a behind-the-scenes tour of the newly opened Fred B. Noe Distillery, have a front row seat to the bottling process of Knob Creek® Single Barrel Reserve and enjoy tasting and storytelling led by a Master Distiller. Following the tour, guests are treated to some of Beam’s finest whiskey and a few of the most sought-after new releases paired with a Kentucky-inspired lunch at The Kitchen Table. Behind the Beam dates and themes can be found here.
Themes:
· Behind The Beam – Maturation Matters
Bourbon lovers can join Fred and Freddie Noe on an experience through the historic warehouses of James B. Beam Distilling Co. where guests will learn the secrets of how time, temperature and wood impact the World’s #1 Bourbon.
· Behind The Beam – Little Book® + Country Ham
When Freddie Noe set out to make his own mark on the bourbon industry, he wanted to honor his grandfather Booker by creating a product with one attribute in mind: flavor. Join Freddie Noe as he takes you through the process of blending a new batch of Little Book and enjoy a tasting against other traditional bourbons to showcase the contrast and what blending can do to elevate flavors. After, you’ll join Freddie to see how his innovative flair extends to a famous family heirloom: Freddie’s country ham. Whether it is in bourbon or cooking, the Beam family has always pushed the boundaries of flavor.
· Behind The Beam – Cocktails
Fred and Freddie love nothing more than using Beam bourbons to make cocktails. Yet with so much mixology experience, what are the favorite cocktails of the Master Distillers of the First Family of Bourbon? An immersive mixology experience in which you’ll explore which cocktails pair best with Beam Distilling brands.
· 8 Generations Tasting Experience ($40): Taste through 229 years of whiskey making and discover the unique fingerprint each generation has left on this iconic spirit through a 40-minute guided experience. Guests will discover the Beam and Noe families’ rich legacy while tasting seven unique whiskeys, each a captivating chapter narrating their pioneering journey. From pre-prohibition classics to innovative contemporary expressions, this guided exploration lets guests experience the evolution of American Whiskey firsthand.
· Knob Creek Tasting Experience ($25): Embark on a guided tasting experience featuring Knob Creek’s lauded small-batch bourbons and rye whiskeys. Learn the secrets behind Knob Creek’s unique aging process through a 30-minute guided tour and discover how each different varietal tells its own story and learn how the release of Knob Creek® was a major step toward making the small-batch whiskey movement what it is today.
· Jim Beam Tasting Experience ($20): Journey through the iconic expressions of the World’s #1 Bourbon brand in this immersive experience with a curated selection of Jim Beam® expressions, allowing guests to appreciate the subtle nuances of each bottling. From Jacob Beam’s pre-prohibition roots to the modern-day leadership of Master Distillers Fred and Freddie Noe, this 30-minute guided exploration showcases the evolution of this iconic brand.
The Kitchen Table Restaurant and The Clermont Supper Club Dinner Series
The James B. Beam Distilling Co. has released 2024 dates for the Clermont Supper Club dinner series at The Kitchen Table, the full-service restaurant inspired by the original Beam family kitchen table, a place of storytelling, whiskey sharing and recipes. Guests can purchase dinner tickets and join Master Distillers Fred and Freddie Noe for an evening of Beam family-inspired fare, unique cocktails, tasting of new whiskeys and behind-the-scenes barrel stories directly from the First Family of Bourbon themselves. Dinner details and tickets can be found here.
Upcoming Clermont Supper Club Dates
· Thursday, June 13 – Bardstown Bourbon Collection™
· Thursday, July 18 – Knob Creek®
· Thursday, August 15 – Bakers® 13
· Thursday, September 12 – Little Book®
· Thursday, October 17 – Beam Family
· Thursday, November 14 – Distillers’ Share™
· Thursday, December 12 – Holiday Edition
Please visit beamdistilling.com for more information about The James B. Beam Distilling Co. and to purchase tickets to any of these experiences. While tours are limited to guests age 21+, guests of any age can visit the grounds and The Kitchen Table restaurant.
The James B. Beam Distilling Co. is an ideal location and venue for weddings, corporate travel and meetings, family gatherings, bachelor(ette) parties, birthdays and more. Inquiries can be made here.
About The James B. Beam Distilling Co.
Founded by America’s first family of bourbon, the James B. Beam Distilling Co. has crafted genuine American Whiskey since 1795. Its portfolio includes globally coveted and award-winning whiskey brands including Jim Beam®, Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, Booker’s®, Baker’s®, Little Book®, Legent®, Old Tub®, Old Overholt®, Old Crow®, and Old Grand-Dad®. Maintaining the whiskey traditions of eight generations of family distillers while advancing the category through innovation, the Beam family has defined what American Whiskey could be and should be for more than 225 years. The James B. Beam Distilling Co. crafts American Whiskey with genuine, quality ingredients that are distilled and aged without compromise at its family distilleries in Clermont, Kentucky.
About Suntory Global Spirits
As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com and www.drinksmart.com.
Craft casual brand serves up a volcano of flavor while raising funds for No Kid Hungry and celebrating Hawaiian Foods Week with limited time sandwich and wings
As if bringing new flavors to the table and raising money to help feed kids in need isn’t enough, Dog Haus’ June limited-time items are now doing triple duty, by also celebrating Hawaiian Foods Week (June 9-15).
For the Dog Haus team, showcasing flavors and ingredients from around the world in new ways is a no-brainer. They’ve been doing it since the burgers, brats and brews brand’s inception. Their West Coast take on American classics is known for its signature use of grilled King’s Hawaiian rolls and German-inspired sausages that serve as a platform for toppings and flavor combinations that have spawned a devoted following nationwide. For the past 7 years, the brand has used its limited time offerings not only as a way of delighting diners’ taste buds, but as a vehicle to raise money for No Kid Hungry, to provide meals to kids who would otherwise go without.
This June, Dog Haus is serving two Hawaiian-inspired items:
Ohana Chicken Sando—a crispy fried chicken tender topped with chili crisp, spicy mayo, teriyaki aioli and Haus slaw, all nestled in a King’s Hawaiian bun; a celebration of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for kicking off the summer.
Mighty Moa Wings—traditional bone-in wings tossed in teriyaki aioli and topped with spicy mayo, chili crisp and scallions; offering a tantalizing combination of heat and sweetness that transport taste buds straight to the islands.
“With summer in full swing, beach vibes are on everyone’s mind and I think there’s no better place in the world than Hawaii to enjoy the waves and incredible food. So creating items featuring island flavors was a no-brainer,” said Dog Haus Würstmacher Adam Gertler, when asked about June’s items.
In the same conversation, Founding Partner Hagop Giragossian added “Because we believe so strongly in their mission, we’ve partnered with No Kid Hungry for many years and we’re looking forward to making another big contribution through this initiative. Plus, we’re inviting everyone to celebrate Hawaiian Foods Week with us by enjoying the Ohana Chicken Sando and Mighty Moa Wings all month long.”
Giving back has always been a part of Dog Haus’ mission. Since its inception in 2010, the brand has been committed to making a positive impact in both its local communities and nationwide. By donating $1 from the sale of each Ohana Chicken Sando and order of Mighty Moa Wings to No Kid Hungry, its national charity partner, Dog Haus is helping feed hungry children nationwide.
Hawaiian Foods Week is an annual event that holds a special place in the hearts of the Dog Haus team. Their long-standing partnership with King’s Hawaiian Rolls has inspired them to create unique dishes each year, showcasing Hawaii’s rich culinary heritage and offering a taste of paradise.
For up-to-date location and brand information, visitdoghaus.com.
About Dog Haus
Dog Haus is an award-winning concept known for burgers, brats and brews. Its gourmet hot dogs, sausages, burgers, plant-based and fried chicken offerings, creative full bar program and virtual concepts The Absolute Brands enjoy a devoted following nationwide.
Founded by longtime friends Hagop Giragossian, Quasim Riaz and André Vener, the first Dog Haus opened in Pasadena, California in 2010. Dog Haus’s newly launched iOS and Android app, Haus Rewards, encompasses both Dog Haus and the virtual concept Bad-Ass Breakfast Burritos and includes a digital ordering experience and a revamped loyalty program, all within an intuitive and user-friendly app experience.
Dog Haus was honored with Nation’s Restaurant News’ prestigious MenuMasters Award and has consistently been named in Fast Casual’s Top 25 Movers and Shakers list since 2020. Most recently, Franchise Times announced the winners of its annual Zor Awards, and Dog Haus came out on top – winning the prized honor of “Top Brand to Buy.”
The brand continues to garner critical acclaim for its signature all-beef dogs and hand-crafted sausages with no added nitrates, and 100% Black Angus beef burgers – all of which are made with hormone- and antibiotic-free meat and served on grilled King’s Hawaiian rolls.
With its mission to sustainably feed everyone who walks through their doors, Dog Haus also offers a diverse lineup of plant-based burger, sausage and chicken creations. As more and more diners make the brand a “haus”-hold name, Dog Haus continues to give back through its national charity partnership with No Kid Hungry, donating proceeds from its Absolute Würst Sausage Series and monthly limited-time offerings to help feed millions of kids nationwide. For up-to-date location and brand information, visit doghaus.com or follow Dog Haus on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter).
Entries for the 2024 James Beard Book Awards were accepted for all cookbooks and other nonfiction food and beverage books published in the U.S. in 2023. Books from foreign publishers were eligible if they bore a 2023 U.S. copyright date or were distributed in the U.S. during 2023.
This year’s winners, announced tonight at Columbia College, were:
Baking and Desserts Dark Rye and Honey Cake: Festival Baking from Belgium, the Heart of the Low Countries Regula Ysewijn (Weldon Owen)
Beverage with Recipes Slow Drinks: A Field Guide to Foraging and Fermenting Seasonal Sodas, Botanical Cocktails, Homemade Wines, and More Danny Childs (Hardie Grant North America)
Beverage without Recipes Agave Spirits: The Past, Present, and Future of Mezcals Gary Paul Nabhan and David Suro Piñera (W. W. Norton & Company)
Food Issues and Advocacy Resilient Kitchens: American Immigrant Cooking in a Time of Crisis: Essays and Recipes Philip Gleissner and Harry Eli Kashdan (Rutgers University Press)
General Start Here: Instructions for Becoming a Better Cook Sohla El-Waylly (Alfred A. Knopf)
International The World Central Kitchen Cookbook José Andrés and World Central Kitchen with Sam Chapple-Sokol (Clarkson Potter)
Literary Writing The Migrant Chef: The Life and Times of Lalo García Laura Tillman (W. W. Norton & Company)
Reference, History, and Scholarship White Burgers, Black Cash: Fast Food from Black Exclusion to Exploitation Naa Oyo A. Kwate (University of Minnesota Press)
Restaurant and Professional Fish Butchery: Mastering The Catch, Cut, And Craft Josh Niland (Hardie Grant Books)
Single Subject Pasta Every Day: Make It, Shape It, Sauce It, Eat It Meryl Feinstein (Hachette Book Group)
U.S. Foodways Love Japan: Recipes from Our Japanese American Kitchen Aaron Israel and Sawako Okochi with Gabriella Gershenson (Ten Speed Press)
Vegetable-Focused Cooking Tenderheart: A Cookbook About Vegetables and Unbreakable Family Bonds Hetty Lui McKinnon (Alfred A. Knopf)
Visuals The Book of Sichuan Chili Crisp Yudi Echevarria (Ten Speed Press)
Cookbook Hall of Fame
Pierre Thiam
Emerging Voice Mayumu: Filipino American Desserts Remixed Abi Balingit (HarperCollins)
CHOOSE CHICAGO’S TRAVEL SERIES “THE 77: A CITY OF NEIGHBORHOODS” WINS THIRTEEN TELLY AWARDS
Choose Chicago is proud to announce that its new travel series, “The 77: A City of Neighborhoods,” has received multiple honors at the prestigious Telly Awards, a globally-recognized awards platform that honors excellence in television and video across all screens.
Pullman Historic District in the Pullman Neighborhood. Photo courtesy of the Pullman Historic Foundation.
Choose Chicago created this series in partnership with Chicago-based Skalawag Productions to showcase the rich diversity and history of our neighborhoods. “The 77: A City of Neighborhoods” garnered thirteen accolades at the Telly Awards, including five Gold and eight Silver Awards.
The Chicago River flows through several of the city’s neighborhoods including River North. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
Choose Chicago works to position Chicago’s neighborhoods as premier travel destinations by collaborating with local creatives, community leaders, and chambers of commerce, and by supporting community events, infrastructure development, and placemaking projects.
Saints Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church. Ukrainian Village. Photo courtesy of Eric Allix Rogers.
Rich Gamble, Interim President and CEO of Choose Chicago, expressed his excitement about the series’ success: “We are thrilled that ‘The 77: A City of Neighborhoods’ has been recognized with such prestigious awards. This series is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Chicago’s neighborhoods and the talented team behind its creation. We hope these stories inspire viewers to further explore and experience all that our city and its neighborhoods have to offer.”
The Auditorium Theater of Roosevelt University. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
“The 77: A City of Neighborhoods” celebrates the vibrant and distinct communities that make Chicago a world-class destination. The first five episodes of the series have resonated with audiences and judges alike, earning recognition across multiple categories. The awards underscore the series’ exceptional storytelling, cinematography, and creative direction.
“Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, and we took a new marketing approach that acknowledges the realties and complexities of a constantly changing urban landscape,” said Rob Fojtik, Vice President of Neighborhood Strategy at Choose Chicago. “‘The 77: A City of Neighborhoods’ series is part of our organization’s commitment to position the city’s communities as premier cultural destinations and to promote economic activity beyond the central business district.”
Aerial view of Wrigley Field. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
“Working on ‘The 77: A City of Neighborhoods’ with Choose Chicago has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Mark Skala, Founder of Skalawag Productions. “This series allowed us to delve into the heart of Chicago’s neighborhoods and showcase their unique stories. The collaboration with the community and the talented team at Choose Chicago made this project truly special, and we hope it inspires people to explore every corner of this beautiful city.”
Rockefeller Chapel in Chicago’s Hyde Park Neighborhood. Eric Allix Rogers photography.
“It has been wonderful to see Bronzeville featured in ‘The 77: A City of Neighborhoods,’” said Cecilia Cuff, Owner of Bronzville Winery. “This recognition goes beyond just our restaurant; it highlights the legacy and spirit of the Bronzeville community. Through this series, viewers get a glimpse into how the history and culture of our neighborhood are instrumental in revitalizing and fostering a sense of pride and unity. I am proud to be part of this celebration of Chicago’s neighborhoods and look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience all that my community has to offer.”
Legacy Walk in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
Gold Awards:
Food & Beverage — Online
Travel & Tourism — Online
History — Online
Documentary — Online
Writing — Online (Humboldt Park)
The Skydeck at Willis Tower. Photo credit Ranvestal Photography.
Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago’s Garfield Park Neighborhood. Adam Alexander Photography.
Funding for production of “The 77: A City of Neighborhoods” was provided by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) as part of a grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
The series can be viewed on Choose Chicago’s YouTube channel where visitors can immerse themselves in the unique stories and vibrant cultures of our city’s neighborhoods.
Chicago Skyline along the city’s Magnificent Mile. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
About Choose Chicago
Choose Chicago is the official sales and marketing organization responsible for promoting Chicago as a global visitor and meetings destination, leveraging the city’s unmatched assets to ensure the economic vitality of the city, its residents and our partner business community.
The Bean in Millennium Park in Chicago’s Loop. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
Celebrate this year’s James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One, kicking off on Thursday, June 6 and extending through Tuesday, June 11. This celebratory weekend is packed with an vast array of intimate and grand-scale events, featuring special menus, exclusive out-of-town chef and bartender collaborations, educational sessions, and more. With one of the strongest lineups of public events since the arrival of the James Beard Awards® in Chicago in 2015, the weekend promises to be one of the most lively celebrations of the city’s dynamic dining scene this year.
Recognized as one of the nation’s most prestigious honors, the James Beard Awards celebrate excellence in the culinary and food media industries, and broader food system. They also honor individuals who demonstrate a commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.
Co-hosts Choose Chicago and Illinois Restaurant Association champion the city’s vibrant hospitality community year-round, but this weekend provides a particularly proud moment. Open to the public, 2024 festivities include:
THURSDAY, JUNE 6
Mordecai’s James Beard Special Menu with Cocktail Pairings
Thursday, June 6th – Monday, June 10th
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Mordecai – 3632 North Clark Street, Chicago IL 60613
In celebration of the James Beard Awards, Mordecai will host a special James Beard menu with cocktail pairings in honor of the ceremony and James Beard Foundation from Thursday, June 6th – Monday, June 10th. Chef Djibril Webb has chosen two recipes from the James Beard Cookbook and Mordecai’s Bar Manager, Rena Long, created special cocktails to pair perfectly with each dish. The menu includes: Stuffed Little Neck Clams set to pair with the Vintage Mordecai Martini and the Breaded Pork Chop with Dill Caper Gravy paired with a cocktail featuring a coconut fat-washed Benriach 10, Bittermens Tepache pineapple, burnt coconut palm sugar, sfumato, and coriander bitters. A portion of the proceeds from each of the dishes and cocktails (sold a la carte) will be donated to the James Beard Foundation.
FRIDAY, JUNE 7
Celebration of Old-World Wines with Terraneo Merchants
Friday, June 7th, 2024
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar – 2700 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
A two-part celebration with Sasha and Drue from Terraneo. To begin a two-part celebration, Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar will host a Happy Hour Take-over from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm to sample a variety of wine with Sasha and Drue from Terraneo Merchants. All wines will be happy hour priced. They will provide tastes and an in-depth dive with those curious to know more. The event will feature happy hour bites and plates with a Georgian Twist! Reservations are strongly suggested, and open to the public. For the second half of the celebration, the restaurant will pour many bottles of Georgian wine to be passed and many toasts by Sasha and Drue during a traditional Georgian Supra Feast from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.
In the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, luxury boutique hotel Pendry Chicago’s rooftop cocktail haven, Château Carbide, will welcome the 2024 James Beard Award nominee (Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages Program) Strong Water Anaheim for a bar takeover 24 stories above the city. Operated by husband-and-wife duo Ying Chang and Robert Adamson, Strong Water Anaheim has gained nationwide recognition for its nautical-theme “tiki-easy” with rum-based libations, which transport guests onto a sunken ship embarking on an immersive tiki experience. Ying and Robert’s team will be on-site at the historic Art Deco Carbide & Carbon Building shaking up a selection of fan-favorite cocktails from the menu of the James Beard Award nominated bar.
The Bartender’s Bookshelf: Toby Maloney & The Violet Hour host Danny Childs, Slow Drinks
7:30 pm -12:00 am
The Violet Hour – 1520 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
James Beard Award-winning author and barman Toby Maloney will welcome Danny Childs, author of Slow Drinks 2024 James Beard Media Award nominee (Beverage Book with Recipes) to The Violet Hour for “The Bartender’s Bookshelf.” The evening will be dedicated to showcasing the talent of the James Beard Media Awards nominee. Together with The Violet Hour team, ethnobotanist Danny has crafted a specialty menu that pulls recipes and inspiration from Slow Drinks, his acclaimed guide to foraging and fermenting seasonal sodas, botanical cocktails, homemade wines, and more.
Throughout the night, signed copies of Slow Drinks will be available for purchase on-site with the help of the local Chicago bookstore, The Book Cellar. The Violet Hour will open its doors to the public, inviting local cocktail enthusiasts to meet Danny and Toby and grab a drink from the collaborative menu and a signed copy of the book while supplies last.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday @ Sportsman’s Club
9:00 pm – 2:00 am
Sportsman’s Club – 948 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622
No reservations required
2023 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Restaurant, Philadelphia-based Friday, Saturday, Sunday, will take over Sportsman’s Club’s bar. Beginning at 9:00 pm, FSS head bartender Paul MacDonald will showcase some of the restaurant’s signature drinks in addition to a few one-night-only creations. This event is first come, first served. No reservations.
SATURDAY, JUNE 8
Cocktail for a Cause at Bar Mar & Bazaar Meat by José Andrés
Saturday, June 8th – Monday, June 10th 2024
All Day
Bar Mar & Bazaar Meat by José Andrés – 120 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
Sip for good! In celebration of and a show of commitment to the James Beard Awards in Chicago, Bar Mar by José Andrés and Bazaar Meat by José Andrés will donate a portion of proceeds from each Salt Air Margarita sold from Saturday, June 8 through Monday, June 11 to the James Beard Foundation’s Women’s Leadership Programs. Whether a stop in during the energetic weekend or refreshment just before the ceremony at the Lyric, José’s signature margarita is the perfect way to cocktail for a great cause.
Summer Kickoff Party at Baobing!
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Baobing at Duck Duck Goat – 857 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
No reservation required
Chef Stephanie Izard at Baobing, her Taiwanese-inspired walk-up window next to Duck Duck Goat, will offer cocktails and ice cream sundaes to kick off summer!
Under the Influence: How Dining Trends are Shaping Drink Choices– A Panel Hosted by the James Beard Foundation®
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Biân – 600 W Chicago Ave Suite 001, Chicago, IL 60654
Leaders in restaurants, bars, and hospitality, as well as beverage producers, will convene to talk about how dining trends, menu creation, and consumption shape how consumers select their beverages. Kevin Boehm, Chairman and Co-Founder, Biân; Co-CEO and Co-Founder, Boka Restaurant Group; and 2019 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Restaurateur will host the panel alongside Tahiirah Habibi and Richy Petrina, James Beard Awards Committee Members. Rodney Williams, James Beard Foundation Trustee and President, Diageo Beer Company will moderate the conversation. Panelists include:
Gregory Gourdet, Author, Chef and Owner, Kann; 2022 James Beard Book Award Winner; 2023 James Beard Award Winner for Best New Restaurant
Lynnette Marrero, Co-founder, Speed Rack and Partner, Delola
Julia Momosé, Partner and Creative Director, Kumiko; 2022 James Beard Book Award Winner
This intimate conversation, moderated by 2022 James Beard Leadership Award honoree and Justice for Migrant Women Founder Mónica Ramírez, will provide insight from two seasoned leaders in the food industry on the role of the restaurant industry in confronting crises and supporting care in the communities that surround them, and the workers that make them run. This conversation will look at trends they have seen since COVID, opportunities and promising practices, and the work that remains to be done.
Immigrant Women Leading Across the Food Supply Chain
James Beard Leadership Award Honorees Justice for Migrant Women and Oakland Bloom (for Understory) work to advance rights, power, and pathways to ownership for working-class migrant women in food. While migrant women’s labor and knowledge are a cornerstone of the food industry at all levels, their voices and experiences are often erased. The event will feature powerful conversation with migrant women in food, discussing their experiences and insights around food and migration, and how they are advancing a more just, connected, healthier, and inclusive vision for the industry and their communities.
Convenience Middle West
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Middle Brow – 2840 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
A two-part celebration with Antonio Salto of Polanco and Chef Guy Meikle of Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar. Reserve Level Tastings: To begin the two-part celebration, Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar will host a sampling of some of Polanco’s Reserve level caviars during a tasting led by Antonio Salto. Enjoy a menu of items at your leisure anytime between 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Reservations are $70 a person and reservations are strongly suggested, open to the public. Continue the two-part celebration with Antonio Salto and Chef Guy during a special tasting menu from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. Tickets are $325 a person and all-inclusive with a max capacity of 24 guests, reservations are required.
Served Up: A Rooftop Pop-Up featuring James Beard Outstanding Bar Finalist Barr Hill Cocktail Bar at Château Carbide
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Château Carbide at Pendry Chicago – 230 N Michigan Ave., 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
Luxury boutique hotel ’s rooftop cocktail haven Château Carbide will welcome 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Outstanding Bar, Vermont-based for a bar takeover 24 stories above the city. Barr Hill Cocktail Bar has gained nationwide recognition for its cocktail menu that combines handcrafted ingredients with cutting-edge bar techniques. From 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Barr Hill’s Head Distiller Ryan Christiansen and team will be onsite at the historic Art Deco Carbide & Carbon Building chatting shaking up a selection of fan-favorite cocktails from their James Beard Award-nominated menu.
James Beard Tasting Menu at The Coach House
6:30 pm
The Coach House – 1742 W. Division Street, Chicago, IL Reservations Here
Enjoy an 8-course tasting menu by 2x James Beard Award-nominated Chef Zubair Mohajir, exploring the primary spices used in South Indian cuisine. Through storytelling and an exclusively unique menu, guests for this event will get to experience The Coach House in an entirely new and vibrant way.
SUNDAY, JUNE 9
Coffee Chat: Culinary Titans Tackle Sustainability from Planet to Plate to People at Daisies
9:30 am – 11:00 am
Daisie’s – 2375 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Chef and Owner Joe Frillman of MICHELIN Green Starred Daisies in Logan Square will gather several of the industries’ leading voices in sustainability for an open-to-the-public coffee chat on the morning of Sunday, June 9th featuring Chicago’s own Green City Market, the city’s first year-round nonprofit farmers’ market that fights for citywide access to locally-grown, sustainably-produced food. From forging lasting bonds with local farmers to pioneering groundbreaking techniques in waste reduction and supporting local pollinators, the panel will share their insights and strategies for a more sustainable future. As they tackle pressing issues facing the industry today, attendees are welcome to nosh on a selection of hosted sweets and pastries by Jean Banchet Award-winning Executive Pastry Chef and Partner Leigh Omilinsky of Daisies as well as complimentary coffee and tea moderated by Food & Wine’s Chandra Ram, James Beard Media Award nominee, and IACP Award-nominated associate editorial director Chandra Ram, Daisies welcomes trailblazers including:
Joe Frillman of Daisies in Chicago, IL — MICHELIN Green Star, 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef: Great Lakes
Chef Rick Bayless — Frontera, Xoco, Bar Sótano & More, Top Chef, Founder of Green City Market & Frontera Farmer Foundation, Seven-Time James Beard Award winner
Chef Geoff Davis of Burdell in Oakland, CA — 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: California, Esquire’s Best New Restaurants
Chef Rob Connoley of Bulrush in St. Louis, MO — 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: Midwest, Author: Acorns & Cattails: A Modern Foraging Cookbook of Forest, Farm & Field
Patrick Amice of Barr Hill Cocktail Bar and Distillery in Montpelier, VA — General Manager of Hospitality Operations, 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Outstanding Bar Program
Nicole Yarovinsky of Daisies in Chicago, IL — Bar Director, 2x Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards Semi-Finalist
Get Roasted ‘24: Brew and Bites with Big Shoulders Coffee
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Big Shoulders Coffee Roasting Works – 2415 W 19th Street, Chicago, IL 60608
Patricia and Tim Coonan will welcome all to the Roastery for the 2024 Get Roasted event. The event will feature fresh coffee and homemade pastries, live roasting demonstrations, a micro-lot pour-over station, an espresso bar with a latte art exhibition, mocktails and cocktails created by our mixologist, Alicia Scott, and local brewery Alarmist Brewing will be sponsoring the event with a small selection of their craft beers. Don’t miss the craft coffee brew and bites event of the year ahead of the James Beard Foundation Awards. All guests will receive a bag of freshly roasted coffee to go.
Steph & Chef Friends’ Beard Brunch!
11:00 am – Onward
Girl & the Goat – 809 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60607
Stephanie Izard alongside Lee Anne Wong, Christina Nguyen, Elizabeth Falkner, and Karen Akunowicz, will host a very special brunch. Enjoy a tasty dish from each chef while supporting the James Beard Foundation’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program. Cocktails, beer, and wine will be available for a la carte purchase. Brunch will be a ticketed, family-style event with communal seating, please purchase the total amount of tickets for your entire party to ensure you will be seated next to one another. Please reach out to info@girlandthegoat.com with questions.
West Loop’s Sunday Brunch @ Nobu’s Rooftop
11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Nobu Chicago Rooftop – 155 N. Peoria Street, Chicago, IL 60607
Nobu will host a Sunday Brunch soiree at The Rooftop, the stunning restaurant and lounge on the 11th floor of Nobu Hotel Chicago, which recently received a MICHELIN Key. Get a taste of celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s brunch menu while taking in one of the best views of Chicago’s skyline overlooking the burgeoning West Loop neighborhood. Attendees will be served reception-style Nobu brunch bites and crafted cocktails.
JBF Greens x Mi Tocaya Antojería
12:00pm – 2:30pm
Mi Tocaya Antojería – 2800 W. Lohan Blvd., Chicago IL 60647
Mi Tocaya Antojería will host JBF Greens and open for brunch so that the James Beard Foundation® Greens community (and friends!) can ring in the 2024 Awards. Translated to mean “my namesake” in Spanish, Mi Tocaya highlights chef — and James Beard Award nominee — Diana Dávila’s mission to reshape Mexican cuisine.
Since opening the restaurant in 2017, Chef Diana has established herself as a leader in and out of the kitchen. During the pandemic, she not only launched the Todos Ponen Project to support undocumented workers in the hospitality industry, but also provided free meals for the community, and remained steadfast in her commitment to her employees, farmers, and local vendors. For the occasion, chef Diana will prepare a 3-course brunch that highlights traditional favorites as well as lesser-known regional specialties inspired by her summers traveling through Mexico.
Up South
1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Justice of the Pies – 8655 S Blackstone, Chicago, IL 60619
No reservation required
Chef Maya-Camille Broussard, 2022 James Beard Award nominee for Outstanding Baker, Chef Serigne Mbaye, 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Best New Restaurant, Chef Adrienne Cheatham, 2023 James Beard Media Award nominated author of Sunday Best, and Chef Fariyal Abdullahi, 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Emerging Chef, will celebrate culinary brilliance on the South Side of Chicago. The UP SOUTH pop-up will feature offerings laced with Southern influences while retaining the spirit of the greater Black diaspora. Live music and terrace seating will be available at Justice of the Pies, a bakery proudly nestled in the center of Avalon Park on Chicago’s South Side.
The Rise and Impact of Chef Civic Leadership – A Panel Hosted by Chicago Chefs Cook
Stage #1: Florence – Rimini (206 km, 3800 meters of altitude difference)
The first stage sets off from Florence, leading cyclists through a challenging route that crosses the Apennines. This 206 km stage with 3800 meters of altitude difference features
picturesque locations such as Premilcuore, Strada San Zeno, Pianetto, Santa Sofia, San Piero in Bagno, Quarto, Sarsina, Mercato Saraceno, Perticara, Novafeltria, the City of San Marino (RSM), and Cerasolo, culminating in an exhilarating sprint along the Rimini seafront.
Stage #2: Cesenatico – Bologna (200 km)
The second stage starts in the renowned cycling hub of Cesenatico in Emilia Romagna. The route includes several notable Emilia Romagna cities: Cervia, Milano Marittima, Savio, Classe, Ravenna, San Michele,Godo, Russi, Mezzeno, Faenza, Errano, Rontana, Riolo Terme, Ponticelli, Imola, Toscanella, Castel San Pietro Terme, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 
The Grand Départ in Emilia Romagna is not just a sporting event but an extraordinary spectacle that crosses 38 locations in the region. Known for its deep-rooted cycling traditions, Emilia Romagna will witness a significant media impact and a surge in related activities. Over 200
TV channels worldwide will broadcast the event, with an estimated 1.8 million spectators along the route between Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Piedmont. The influx of visitors is expected to generate over 300,000 hotel stays during the three stages, contributing to an economic impact exceeding 120 million euros.
Emilia Romagna, already recognized as a top cycling destination, will soon add the prestigious title of Tour de France destination to its list of accolades.
For travelers who are inspired by the Tour de France coverage during these first three stages, here are five cycling experiences to try during a future visit to Emilia Romagna:
1. 
