The James Beard Awards are Coming to Chicago

Could the rumors actually be true? Both Kevin Pang in the Tribune and Steve Dolinsky are citing unnamed sources this morning in order to report that the James Beard Awards ceremony will be held in Chicago next year. Mayor Emanuel is scheduled to make an announcement in Millennium Park this morning.

In February, a report surfaced that city tourism officials were trying to pry the awards from NYC, where they've been since their inception in 1990. They have reportedly succeeding and are planning to hold the awards at the Lyric Opera House on Wacker Drive next May. Stay tuned for an official announcement.
· Chicago grabs James Beard 'food Oscars' ceremony from New York [Tribune]
· James Beard Awards Coming to Chicago [Steve Dolinsky]
· All James Beard Awards Coverage [-ECHI-]

UPDATE: The New York Times confirmed the reports, quoting JBF president Susan Ungaro saying "Chicago made us a very appealing offer to host the show." Rahm, Choose Chicago, and Alpana Singh helped convince the foundation to make the move, according to the Times. Get ready for a party next year.