Los Angeles Receives Multiple James Beard Honors

WHY IT RATES: Los Angeles secured the highest number of accolades across multiple categories at the esteemed 2023 James Beard Awards. —Janeen Christoff, TravelPulse Managing Editor

Los Angeles Tourism celebrates the results of the James Beard Foundation’s annual awards ceremony with the highest number of Beard honors than any other city. With wins for two LA chefs, a cookbook and one LA restaurant, these accolades solidify the city’s recognition as a vibrant culinary destination, offering diverse and exceptional dining experiences to visitors and locals alike. The winners included Republique’s Margarita Manzke for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, Anajak Thai’s Justin Pichetrungsi for Best Chef: West, and Ototo for Outstanding Wine or Other Beverages.

"We're thrilled by the recognition that LA's dynamic and thriving culinary scene received in this year's James Beard Foundation Awards, and extend our congratulations to these shining culinary stars," said Adam Burke, President & CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, “This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and extraordinary talent of our local chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals, who continuously raise the bar for creativity and innovation.”

The awards were announced at a live ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on Monday, June 5. On June 3, two Los Angeles based chefs came home with accolades from the James Beard Awards for books and media. Restaurateur Kevin Bludso and chef Noah Galuten of Bludso's Bar & Que won the restaurant and professional category for cookbooks with Bludso’s BBQ Cookbook: A Family Affair in Smoke and Soul. 

Margarita Manzke, the visionary behind the acclaimed Republique bakery in Los Angeles Mid-City, has solidified her establishment as one of the nation's premier daytime bakeries and dessert destinations. Alongside her husband and business partner Walter Manzke, Margarita also oversees the renowned Sari Sari Store inside Grand Central Market, the popular Petty Cash Taqueria, the charming French bistro Bicyclette, and the esteemed fine dining restaurant, Manzke.

In the heart of Echo Park, Courtney Kaplan and Charles Namba's Ototo captivates with its unwavering commitment to a remarkable sake menu. This distinctive establishment boasts one of the country's most dedicated and robust collections of seasonal sakes, delighting enthusiasts with a truly exceptional experience.

Further enriching Los Angeles' culinary tapestry, Anajak Thai, helmed by Chef James Pichetrungsi, stands out prominently on famed Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks. Garnering the prestigious title of Restaurant of the Year by The Los Angeles Times in 2022, this second-generation Thai restaurant offers a trifecta of distinct dining experiences. Patrons can savor the regular dinner service, indulge in Taco Tuesday delights, or partake in the extraordinary outdoor omakase dining experience, all complemented by a remarkable wine program.

The City of Los Angeles has received more than 380 James Beard Award nominations and wins across all categories since the award’s inception. The awards, considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, recognize exceptional talent in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive. Established in 1990, with the first ceremony taking place in 1991, the Restaurant and Chef Awards is one of five separate recognition programs for the Awards.

The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board invites L.A. visitors — whether first-time guests or returning friends — to explore, experience and enjoy the best of the city’s dining when Dine LA returns in October in celebration of its 15th Anniversary in 2023. Produced by Los Angeles Tourism, Dine LA offers a unique way for Angelenos and visitors to experience the best of the city’s dining at flexible price points ranging from $15-$65+ for lunch or dinner.

SOURCE: Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board press release.

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