The James Beard Foundation Awards were established in 1990 and are often called "The Oscars of Food."  Held on June 8th in New york City, the Awards ceremony honors the finest chefs, restaurants, journalists, cookbook authors, restaurant designers, and electronic media professionals in the country.

More than 600 culinary professionals are involved in the voting process. Recipients receive a bronze medallion etched with the image of the late James Beard as well as a certificate from the Foundation, but no cash prizes.

Holly Smith, Café Juanita, Kirkland