Four Washington, DC restaurants — Albi, Moon Rabbit, Dogon and Pascual — earned spots on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, with Albi climbing to No. 6 and earning the Highest Climber Award as Smyth in Chicago topped the list.
The James Beard Foundation named nine D.C. and Maryland restaurants and chefs as finalists for its prestigious culinary awards, marking the highest number of regional finalists in over a decade. Notable nominees include Moon Rabbit's Kevin Tien and Susan Bae, while other nominees represent establishments such as Inferno Pizzeria Napoletana and Bas Rouge. The awards also recognized excellence in local spirits, with Tail Up Goat and Clavel Mezcaleria receiving nominations. Additionally, Eastern Point Collective's Hollis Wells Silverman and the Lee Initiative's Lindsey Ofcacek and Edward Lee were honored in various categories.