James Beard Foundation Names Winners for Top U.S. Wine and Bar Programs
The James Beard Foundation announced its national culinary awards, recognizing Los Angeles's Kato for best wine program and Portland's Scotch Lodge for outstanding bar.
The James Beard Foundation announced its national culinary award winners this summer, recognizing key establishments across the U.S. hospitality sector, Wine Industry Advisor reported. Los Angeles-based restaurant Kato earned the award for best wine program, while Scotch Lodge in Portland, Oregon, was named outstanding bar. Among other top recognitions, Philadelphia's Kalaya was named outstanding restaurant, and New York City's Lei won best new restaurant. The awards highlight leading national dining and beverage programs.
Key facts
- The James Beard Foundation announced its national culinary awards this summer.
- Kato in Los Angeles won the award for best wine program.
- Scotch Lodge in Portland, Oregon, was named outstanding bar.
- Kalaya in Philadelphia won outstanding restaurant.
- Lei in New York City was named best new restaurant.
Why it matters
The awards showcase top-performing venue concepts and beverage programs, serving as quality benchmarks for wine and bar service across the U.S. hospitality sector.
- Wine Industry Advisor — 2026-10-01: “‘Wine Bar’ Restaurants Have Taken Hold In the U.S. The Trend Is Spreading Globally.”
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