After covering the inaugural North America’s 50 Best Restaurants ceremony in Las Vegas last year, I arrived in New Orleans this week knowing the awards themselves are only part of the story. One thing that became increasingly clear throughout the week is that this gathering is about far more than a numbered list. The conversations happening during #50BestTalks, the exchanges between chefs during Meet the Chefs, and the genuine excitement visible throughout the room all reinforce the same idea: hospitality is ultimately a people business. The rankings may generate the headlines, but the relationships are what make these moments special. More on these exceptional events soon.

But first, let’s talk about the list.

If Las Vegas introduced North America’s 50 Best Restaurants to the continent in 2025, New Orleans proved the platform has quickly become one of the most influential culinary gatherings in the region.

Hosted at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, the second edition of the awards brought together chefs, restaurateurs, media, industry leaders, and some of the most passionate diners from across the United States, Canada, and parts of the Caribbean.

Unlike many traditional rankings, North America’s 50 Best Restaurants is determined by an independent voting academy comprised of 300 restaurant experts spread across eight geographic regions. The academy includes chefs, restaurateurs, journalists, educators, and highly experienced diners. Voters remain anonymous, must vote confidentially, and are required to cast ballots for restaurants outside of their home region. At least 25% of the voting academy is refreshed annually, helping ensure new perspectives enter the process each year.

Chicago’s Smyth rose from No. 4 on the inaugural list to claim the No. 1 position in North America. Led by husband-and-wife team John and Karen Urie Shields, Smyth has become one of our most admired restaurants, delivering an experience that feels personal while remaining technically exceptional. For anyone who has dined there, the climb to the top feels like a natural progression.

The top ten featured several standout performances, including Calgary’s Eight debuting at an astonishing No. 2 and Restaurant Pearl Morissette securing the No. 3 position.

New Orleans itself had plenty to celebrate. Dakar NOLA claimed the No. 4 spot overall while also being named Best Restaurant in the Southern United States. Acamaya entered the list at No. 30, giving the host city two restaurants represented among North America’s best. Then there was the hometown hero moment. Chef Emeril Lagasse received the SevenRooms Icon Award, a fitting tribute in the city where he helped transform the perception of Creole and Cajun cuisine for a global audience. Watching that recognition unfold in New Orleans carried a nostalgic touching energy.

Several restaurants I have personally championed over the years also earned well-deserved recognition. Moon Rabbit climbed to No. 24, continuing Chef Kevin Tien’s remarkable trajectory in Washington D.C. Los Angeles favorite Kato returned to the list at No. 49.

And then there was César. The New York restaurant delivered one of the biggest moves of the evening, leaping from No. 38 in the inaugural rankings all the way to No. 10 this year. In a voting system this competitive, a jump of twenty-eight places speaks volumes about the momentum the restaurant has generated among voters.

Speaking of momentum, Albi in Washington D.C. earned the Highest Climber Award after soaring positions to No. 6 overall, while Calgary’s Eight claimed the Highest New Entry Award after debuting directly at No. 2.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of North America’s 50 Best

And in true New Orleans fashion, the city provided the perfect backdrop. Brass bands, late-night conversations, legendary hospitality, and enough incredible food to remind everyone why this city remains one of America’s great culinary capitals.

As someone fortunate enough to cover both the inaugural Las Vegas edition and now the sophomore year in New Orleans, one thing feels increasingly clear: North America’s 50 Best Restaurants is finding its identity.

And judging by the energy in New Orleans this week, it’s only getting started.

PHOTOS: The Whet Palette Productions

Photo & Graphic: North America’s 50 Best