After a two-year hiatus, the James Beard Awards returned to Chicago in June, bringing together the nation’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals for an evening of ceremony and celebration. All attendees were red carpet-ready for the “Oscars of the food world,” which took place at the Lyric Opera and were followed by a reception at Union Station featuring cocktails, bubbles, and regal bites from restaurants spanning the country. Established in 1990, the Awards are considered one of the highest honors in the culinary realm, recognizing exceptional talent in the restaurant and food media industries and a commitment to racial and gender equity, community, and sustainability. Leaders in the dining landscape were highlighted across more than 20 categories, including Emerging Chef, Outstanding Hospitality, and the regional Best Chefs titles (including Chicago chef Erick Williams of Virtue Restaurant & Bar).