The James Beard Foundation Awards were developed in 1990. This 501c3 works to celebrate, nurture and preserve America’s culinary heritage and celebrates our appreciation in the culinary arts. Of course you can find fabulous cuisine in New York, but do you know where else you can find some of America’s top chefs? Let’s take a tour of the south, those recognized this year by the James Beard Foundation, and its epicurean delights.

• Minibar by Jose Andres in Washington D.C. - This 6 seat restaurant is situated  on the 2nd floor of Cafe Atlantico. They feature a tasting menu of Jose’s culinary creations. The food here combines art and science and is as beautiful to the eye as it is tempting to the stomach. Think Salmon Pineapple Ravioli with crispy quinoa, Corn on the Cob Guacamole and Breaded Cigala with Sea Asparagus. Be prepared as they do book 1 month in advance.
• Highlands Bar & Grill in Birmingham, Alabama - Open since 1982, Chef Frank Stitt runs this Birmingham classic. He combines the traditions of the south with the traditions of the south of France, incorporating local foods. The menu changes daily and may feature choices such as Grilled Local Figs with Prosciutto, Pan Seared Venison with Peppercorn Crust, Fingerling Potatoes and Green Peach Relish, or Fudge Farms Pork Loin and Shoulder. Chef Stitt wanted to create a fine dining restaurant without pretension, and has been successful wholeheartedly.
• Central Michel Richard in Washington D.C. was named the best new restaurant in 2008. Chef Michel playfully combines American favorites with French influences, as he is originally from France. This bistro is found in the heart of D.C. and brings a modern twist to a casual setting - a place that is easy to relax in. Menu items include Goat Cheese Caesar Salad, Fried Chicken with mashed potato and 72 hour short ribs. The cocktail shouldn’t be missed as the Ginger Daiquiri and Violet Mimosa can’t be beat. 
• McCrady’s in Charleston, South Carolina is led by chef Sean Brock. Chef Brock combines classic cooking techniques and recipes passed on from his grandmother with modern influences. He is known for surprising his guests with a surprising take on familiar favorites. Last year, he started managing a small farm that now supplies the restaurant with fresh vegetables and most recently pork. The farm is run on a volunteer basis with help from the restaurant employees, from the bartenders to the butchers. Some familiar offerings include Roasted Scallops with Corn, Smoked Bacon and Tomato Jam, Chilled Cucmber Soup with Shrimp, Yogurt and Meyer Lemon and “Caw Caw Creek” Duroc Pork, Cornbread, Heirloom Field Peas and Root Beer.
  
• CityZen in Washington D.C. is led by Chef Eric Ziebold. Presenting a menu of modern American cuisine, CityZen also offers some of the city’s best martinis and single malt whiskeys. Tempt yourself with Cuttlefish Ratoutille with Stuffed Squash Blossom and Jingle Bell Pepper, Yukon Gold Agnolotti with Path Valley Farms Peas and Sea Urchin, and Asparagus and Maine Lobster Hash. While you are there, indulge some more and treat yourself to a stay at the Mandarin Oriental in Washington D.C. and enjoy your view over the Tidal Basin, the Jefferson Memorial or the Washington Monument.

What are your favorite restaurants to visit?

Photo Credit: Ulterior Epicure @ flickr, Central Michel Richard - biskuit @ flickr

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