These Are 2026’s James Beard America’s Classics Winners
Eater
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The James Beard Foundation has announced this year’s America’s Classics winners, recognizing six independently owned restaurants known for their timeless appeal and deep connection to their communities. These eateries, each with decades of history, showcase regional flavors that reflect cultural traditions and bring people together. The awards highlight the importance of preserving culinary heritage while celebrating the passion and legacy of family-owned businesses in the food industry.
The Serving Spoon, a Black-owned institution in Inglewood, California, has been a cornerstone of the local community for over 40 years, offering breakfast and lunch favorites while serving as a hub for the Black community. Oyster House in Philadelphia preserves the city’s 18th and 19th-century culinary traditions through dishes like sherried snapper soup and fried oysters. Meanwhile, Johnny’s Cafe in Omaha stands out even in a steakhouse-heavy city with its 103-year legacy, known for Polish vinaigrette and peppery cottage cheese spread.
Eng’s in Kingston, New York, holds the title as the area’s first Chinese restaurant, established in 1927. Now run by Tom Sit and Faye for over five decades, it continues to serve classic dishes like egg rolls and pu pu platters. Figaretti’s Italian Restaurant in Wheeling, West Virginia, started with Anna Figaretti’s famous spaghetti sauce, which became a staple among the local coal-miner community. The restaurant is now celebrated for its pastas, steaks, and homemade sausage.
Bob Taylor’s Ranch House in Las Vegas remains a time capsule of an earlier era, known for its grilled steaks and seafood dishes since opening as the Ranch House Supper Club in 1955. These restaurants exemplify how food can preserve cultural identity while creating lasting memories for diners. The America’s Classics awards not only honor these culinary institutions but also remind us of the significance of supporting family-owned businesses that keep regional traditions alive.
For food enthusiasts, these stories highlight the rich tapestry of American cuisine, showcasing how each restaurant reflects its community’s history and values through its menu. By celebrating these eateries, the James Beard Foundation emphasizes the importance of preserving culinary heritage while honoring those who have dedicated their lives to feeding others with love and tradition.
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Originally published on Eater on 2/25/2026