Championing Independent Restaurants with American Express and Resy

The James Beard Foundation has long believed that championing independent restaurants is essential to forging a brighter future of food. Today, we are thrilled to announce a new partnership with American Express and Resy as the official credit card and reservations platform of the James Beard Foundation® and presenting sponsor of the 2026 James Beard Awards®, uniting our mutual commitments to supporting the independent restaurant industry and the people behind it.

Independent restaurants are collectively much more than places to eat—they are essential pillars of America's communities, economy, and culture. Both organizations have demonstrated track records of backing their communities and this partnership increases the impact of those efforts.

“As the James Beard Foundation enters an exciting new chapter of growth, we are excited to join forces with such a mission-aligned partner. Sharing a deep commitment to the independent restaurant industry, this relationship brings new opportunities to amplify our work and deepen our impact,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO, James Beard Foundation.

As presenting sponsor of the James Beard Awards®—a defining authority for culinary recognition and one of most prestigious honors in American food culture—American Express and Resy will support the 2026 James Beard Awards® ceremonies (Media, Impact, and Restaurant and Chef Awards) taking place June 13–15 in Chicago.

Beyond the Awards, American Express and Resy will also serve as presenting sponsor of the James Beard Foundation’s Taste America®, JBF’s national culinary event series, which highlights the annual TasteTwenty cohort of “ones to watch” chefs through walk-around tastings and intimate dinners in cities across the country. Beyond these marquee programs, American Express and Resy will support the Foundation’s broader programming and initiatives year-round, including collaborating on new efforts with the JBF Institute designed to elevate talent, advance training, foster education and advocacy, and cultivate connection across the independent restaurant community. American Express and Resy will also support Platform by the James Beard Foundation, our show kitchen and event and educational space at Pier 57 in New York City.

“Partnering with the James Beard Foundation creates a powerful platform that expands our commitment to recognizing, uplifting and supporting the people behind America's restaurants, from decades-old institutions to the next generation of industry leaders,” said Pablo Rivero, CEO of Resy and SVP, American Express Global Dining. “Through the combined expertise and resources of American Express, Resy, and the James Beard Foundation, we will create more avenues to spotlight our restaurant partners, give American Express Card Members exclusive access to JBF programs, create bespoke JBF and Resy experiences, and support the Foundation’s Impact work.”