WHEREAS, Since 1986, the James Beard Awards-known as the Oscars of the food industry-acknowledge exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive; and
WHEREAS, The James Beard Foundation announced its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards nominees on March 31, 2026, who are the finalists in consideration for awards at the ceremony that will take place on June 15, 2026; and
WHEREAS,
Philadelphia’s unique and diverse food scene-from James Beard Award-winning restaurants to the many small, locally owned eateries-showcases traditions from around the world, reflecting generations of immigrant communities who have shaped the City’s cultural identity through food; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia is home to a growing number of James Beard Award-winning chefs and restauranteurs whose creativity and dedication have elevated the City’s national and international reputation for culinary excellence - several of whom are once again recognized as finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards; and
WHEREAS, Emmett, owned by Julian van der Tak and Evan Snyder, is named as a nominee for Best New Restaurant; Kalaya, led by Chef Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon, as one of the nominees for Outstanding Restaurant; and Justine MacNeil of Fiore named as a nominee for Outstanding Pastry Chef; and
WHEREAS, The Lovers’ Bar at Friday Saturday Sunday as a nominee for Outstanding Bar, and four chefs nominated for contention for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic: Jesse Ito of Royal Sushi & Izakaya; Amanda Shulman of Her Place Supper Club; and Omar Tate and Cybille St. Aude-Tate of Honeysuckle; and
WHEREAS, These chefs and restaurants are being recognized as finalists for one of the nation’s most prestigious culinary honors for their accomplishments in creating exceptional food and beverages, as well as their commitment to community, racial and gender equity, sustainable food systems and building community and culture through food; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and congratulates Philadelphia’s iconic chefs and restaurants named as nominees for the 2026 James Beard Awards.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Julian van der Tak, Evan Snyder, and the entire staff of Emmett, as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body.
End