Smyth in Chicago Crowned Best Restaurant in North America 2026

Smyth in Chicago: A Culinary Triumph

On May 28, 2026, the culinary world celebrated a remarkable milestone as Smyth, located in Chicago, was named the Best Restaurant in North America at the prestigious North America's 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony held in New Orleans. Sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, this event gathered top culinary talent to recognize exceptional dining experiences across the continent.

Smyth, helmed by the talented chefs John and Karen Urie Shields, ascended to the top position from fourth place in 2025, illustrating their commitment to excellence. The restaurant's philosophy revolves around a personalized approach to cooking. By building strong relationships with a network of local producers and suppliers, the Smyth team transforms seasonal ingredients into an extraordinary culinary journey. Each dish presented is not just a meal but an evolving experience that leaves patrons eager for more.

Following Smyth in the rankings were Eight in Calgary, securing the second place, and Pearl Morissette in Lincoln, which captured third place. Faye Huggett, the Community Leader of North America's 50 Best Restaurants, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "The second edition of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants celebrates the diversity, creativity, and excellence that define this region's dining scene. Congratulations to Smyth and all the chefs and teams whose passion and creativity continue to drive the industry forward."

In addition to the top restaurant award, various special awards were presented during the ceremony. Notable among them was the SevenRooms Icon Award, awarded to Emeril Lagasse of Emeril's in New Orleans. The North America's Best Pastry Chef Award, sponsored by Valrhona, went to Lysées Eunji Lee in New York City. Aldo Sohm from Le Bernardin and Aldo Sohm Wine Bar in New York also received the North America's Best Sommelier Award, emphasizing the quality service and expertise that complement the dining experience.

Corey Lee from Benu in San Francisco was recognized with the Estrella Damm Chefs' Choice Award, an honor reflecting the respect and admiration of fellow chefs. Atelier Crenn in San Francisco was awarded the Sustainable Restaurant Award, highlighting the importance of environmental responsibility in modern dining. Moreover, Mashama Bailey from The Grey in Savannah was celebrated as the North America's Best Female Chef, while Albi in Washington, D.C. received the Highest Climber Award.

New entries also made their mark this year, with Eight in Calgary garnering the Highest New Entry Award, showcasing the dynamic nature of North America's restaurant scene.

The 2026 rankings feature a diverse selection of 50 restaurants from a range of cities, including 14 from Canada and a total of 36 from the United States. The list proudly includes 18 new restaurants, reflecting the innovative spirit that pervades North America's culinary landscape.

As the culinary community came together to celebrate these achievements at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, it became clear that the passion for food and the dedication to crafting exceptional dining experiences is not just alive but thriving in North America. The outstanding talent showcased at the awards promises an exciting future for food lovers and the industry alike.

For more details and the full list of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2026, feel free to visit their official site and explore the culinary treasures waiting to be discovered.