Show 166, April 2, 2016: The James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classics Awards

Bricia LopezEvery town has one: a humble restaurant serving up soul-satisfying food, a place that joins the whole community together. Since 1998, the James Beard Foundation has recognized nearly one hundred such establishments – local eateries distinguished as timeless institutions within their communities – by honoring them with their America’s Classic Awards.

Newly published from The James Beard Foundation is James Beard’s All-American Eats – Recipes and Stories from Our Best-Loved Local Restaurants. This impressive reference book also compiles over 75 tested recipes from these beloved restaurants so the home cook can re-create regional favorites such as The Shed’s Red Chile Enchiladas, Frank Pepe’s White Clam Pizza and Guelaguetza’s Chicken Estofado.

“In addition to over 75 recipes, the book shares the inspiring tales behind these mom-and-pops, told in oral histories : how an immigrant grandfather turned an heirloom dish into a booming business, or how a vengeful lover’s recipe for spicy fried chicken earned a cult following. Readers will also find helpful “insider tips” and address information for each of the America’s Classics included in the book.”

Joining us is Bricia Lopez of Guelaguetza (a 2015 America’s Classics Award Winner) and Alison Tozzi Liu, Editorial Director of JBF Media.

Here’s Guelaguetza’s official video shown at The Beard Awards ceremony in Chicago in 2015 as part of the presentation of their America’s Classics Award: