It’s that time of year again: James Beard Awards season has begun. After dropping this year’s semifinalists last month, the James Beard Foundation announced the recipients of its America’s Classics awards today. The category, which the foundation introduced in 1998, recognizes “independently owned restaurants with timeless appeal and beloved in their region for food that reflects the character and cultural traditions of its community.” Below, you’ll find the six winners of this year’s award.
There’s more to come soon. Finalists in the Restaurant and Chef Awards categories will be announced on March 31, while the nominees for the Media Awards will be released on May 6. The James Beard Awards ceremonies will be held on from June 13-June 15 in Chicago.
The Serving Spoon, Inglewood, California
For over 40 years, this beloved family-owned restaurant has been a busy breakfast and lunch destination, and a hub for the Black community in Los Angeles. It was founded in 1983 by Harold E. Sparks, whose grandchildren continue to run the restaurant today.
Oyster House, Philadelphia
The Mink family has been running this Philadelphia institution for three generations, preserving Philadelphia’s 18th and 19th century food traditions with its specialty dishes like sherried snapper soup and fried oysters and chicken salad.
Johnny’s Cafe, Omaha, Nebraska
Even in a steakhouse city, this one stands out: Founded by Frank Kawa, it’s been open for 103 years and has stayed in the same family for three generations. Aside from the requisite ribeyes and martinis, it’s known for its Polish vinaigrette and complimentary appetizer of peppery cottage cheese spread.
Eng’s, Kingston, New York
Jimmi Eng and his son Paul founded their namesake Eng’s in 1927 as Kingston’s first Chinese restaurant. It’s been operated by Tom Sit and his wife Faye for over five decades, continuing to serve classics like egg rolls and pu pu platters.
Figaretti’s Italian Restaurant, Wheeling, West Virginia
Sicilian immigrant Anna Figaretti’s homemade spaghetti sauce became so well-known among northern West Virginia’s Italian coal-miner community that her family was prompted to open Figaretti’s in 1948. Today, the restaurant is known for its pastas, steaks, and homemade sausage.
Bob Taylor’s Ranch House, Las Vegas
Bob Taylor’s opened in 1955 as the Ranch House Supper Club, off the beaten path of the city, with Bob Taylor himself a legendary presence. Today, Bob Taylor’s remains a time capsule of an earlier era of Vegas and still serves the grilled steaks and seafood dishes that made it famous.
Disclosure: Some Vox Media staff members are part of the voting body for the James Beard Foundation Awards.
