James Beard Awards Returning to Chicago in 2016 and 2017

As it turns out, when the James Beard Awards gala kicks off on May 4 in Chicago, it will be the first of at least a three-year run. Mayor Emanuel and the James Beard Foundation jointly announced this morning that the awards will return to town in 2016 and 2017 as well, continuing and unprecedented stretch for the "Oscars of the food world." This year's restaurant and chef awards gala, taking place at the Lyric Opera House in the Loop, is its first outside of New York City. Whether that site will house the awards in the following two years is currently unknown. [UPDATE: The 2016 and 2017 awards will be held at the Lyric Opera House.]

"Chicago has a rich history with the Foundation, delivering restaurant and chef winners 23 out of 24 years with more than 40 James Beard Award winners to date," Rahm is quoted in the announcement. "We are so proud to be welcoming this most prestigious of events for two more years."

The James Beard Foundation book, broadcast, and journalism awards dinner, which is staying in New York this year, will continue to be held in NYC in 2016 and 2017.

BIG NEWS: #JBFA's will be coming back to #Chicago in 2016 & 2017! pic.twitter.com/r2mUF6qic6

— Choose Chicago (@ChooseChicago) April 16, 2015