2 DC Chefs Win James Beard Awards

WASHINGTON, DC — Two chefs from Washington, D.C., were honored at Monday’s James Beard Foundation Awards ceremony at the Lyric Opera in Chicago.

The awards, regarded as the Academy Awards of the U.S. restaurant industry, honor excellence across a range of categories, from fine dining to casual gems.

Chef Michael Rafidi of Albi, a Middle Eastern restaurant at 1346 Fourth St. SE D.C., was honored with the Outstanding Chef Award presented by Hilton.

Here's how Albi describes itself on its website:

"Albi; Arabic for ‘my heart’ is the acclaimed debut restaurant from chef/owner Michael Rafidi. Opened in February 2020, Albi has received continued local and national attention, earning mentions on Best New Restaurant lists by Eater, Robb Report, and Esquire, Eater DC Restaurant of the Year in 2021, and earning a Michelin star in 2022.

"Chef Rafidi takes inspiration from his family’s roots in Ramallah, Palestine, bringing to the table an experience that melds the ancient tradition of the region’s coal-fired cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a refined culinary acumen."

Chef Masako Morishita of Perry's, which is located at 1811 Columbia Road NW in D.C., was recognized with the Emerging Chef Award, which was presented by S.Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral Water.

Here's how Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema described Perry's in May 2023:

"There’s no making up Perry’s many current strengths. Sure, it’s a trek to reach the roof, but that simply means you can sup on sushi beneath the stars. Drag brunch demonstrates the role of restaurants as safe places, and before I finish, I should point out how attentive the service is. 'May I present the sake?' one asked, as if our $36 flask of chilled rice wine were Dom Pérignon. Perry’s is a neighborhood marker that is aging well, aided by fresh blood in the kitchen and ultimately, knowing — and caring — about its audience."

In addition to the two winners, 15 Virginia and DC restaurants and chefs were named semifinalists:

• Outstanding Restaurateur: Ashok Bajaj, Knightsbridge Restaurant Group (Rasika, Annabelle, Sababa, and others), Washington, D.C.
• Outstanding Restaurateur: Hollis Wells Silverman, Eastern Point Collective (The Duck & The Peach, La Collina, The Wells and others), Washington, D.C.
• Outstanding Restaurant presented by Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water: 2941, Falls Church, VA
• Outstanding Restaurant presented by Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water: Pineapple & Pearls, Washington, D.C.
• Outstanding Bakery: Pluma by Bluebird Bakery, Washington, D.C.
• Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit, Washington, D.C.
• Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Tail Up Goat, Washington, D.C.
• Outstanding Bar: Service Bar, Washington, D.C.
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Angel Barreto, Anju, Washington, D.C.
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Najmieh Batmanglij and Christopher Morgan, Joon, Vienna, VA
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Amy Brandwein, Centrolina, Washington, D.C.
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Keem Hughley, Bronze, Washington, D.C.
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Esther Lee, Obelisk, Washington, D.C.
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Travis Milton, Hickory at Nicewonder Farm and Vineyards, Bristol, VA
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Yuan Tang, Rooster & Owl, Washington, D.C.
• Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic: Kevin Tien, Moon Rabbit, Washington, D.C.

“These remarkable individuals embody the very essence of our Good Food for Good ethos, showcasing exceptional talent, unwavering dedication to their craft, and a steadfast commitment to elevating the industry,” James Beard Foundation CEO Clare Reichenbach said in a news release. “With their passion, skill, and leadership, they are shaping our nation's dining landscape and setting a new standard for culinary excellence.”

Established in 1990, with the first ceremony taking place in 1991, the Restaurant and Chef Awards is one of five separate recognition programs for the foundation’s awards.

The 2024 Restaurant and Chef Awards winners are recognized across 22 categories.