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North America's 50 Best Restaurants: Awards and Academy Chairs

On April 16, 2025, North America's 50 Best Restaurants announced its inaugural special award categories and Academy Chairs, setting the stage for a new chapter in the culinary world. This landmark event not only highlights the diversity and talent within the restaurant industry but also honors those who have dedicated their efforts to enhancing the dining experience and community engagement.

Special Award Categories

The following categories have been established to recognize remarkable contributions to the restaurant sector:

1. Champions of Change Award

This award celebrates the unsung heroes of hospitality who are making significant strides towards fostering inclusivity and positive change within the community.

2. Art of Hospitality Award

This accolade is dedicated to recognizing excellence in restaurant service, emphasizing the importance of creating memorable dining experiences for guests.

3. One To Watch Award

This category identifies an up-and-coming restaurant that shows great potential, signifying the future stars of the culinary landscape.

4. Icon Award

Honoring an individual with substantial impact in the hospitality industry, this award acknowledges those who have made exceptional contributions to the field.

5. North America's Best Pastry Chef Award

Highlighting the artistry behind desserts, this award is given to a pastry chef who has excelled in creating exquisite sweet dishes.

6. North America's Best Sommelier Award

This recognition goes to a sommelier who exhibits exceptional knowledge, innovation, and service in the world of wine and beverages.

7. Chefs' Choice Award

A unique peer-voted accolade, this award honors a chef recognized by their peers for their positive influence over the past year.

8. Sustainable Restaurant Award

This award celebrates a restaurant that has demonstrated outstanding efforts toward sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.

9. Best in Destination Awards

For the best restaurant in each of the eight sub-regions, this award recognizes local culinary treasures.

10. The Best Restaurant in North America

The top restaurant, crowned the best in North America, will receive this prestigious title, sponsored by S.Pellegrino Acqua Panna.

Academy Chairs

The Academy Chairs were selected for their broad expertise and connections within the culinary world. They are tasked with assembling a panel that ensures diverse representation in the nominations. The chairs include:

• - Adrian Brijbassi (Canada West)
• - Jamila Robinson (USA Northeast)
• - Lesley Chesterman (Canada East)
• - Lyndsay Green (USA Midwest)
• - Mike Jordan (USA South)
• - Renée Suen (Canada Central)
• - Virginia Miller (USA West)
• - Nneka Nurse (Caribbean)

These esteemed individuals play a crucial role in ensuring that the selection process is fair and reflective of North America's dynamic culinary scene.

For more information about North America's 50 Best Restaurants, you can visit their official website at The World's 50 Best. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements as the culinary community prepares to showcase its talents and achievements.