Originally published by THE SCOUT GUIDE on June 22nd, 2022.
Those in foodie circles know the annual James Beard Foundation Awards are akin to the Oscars for the Hollywood set. In June, the Foundation, an organization established to celebrate and support the people behind America’s food culture, announced this year’s nominees and winners, and we’re excited to share that there were three scouted businesses among them - including Bianco of Tratto, Pane Bianco and Pizzeria Bianco. Read on to get to know the restaurants and chefs who are receiving nationwide acclaim and get set to make some reservations. To find a scouted restaurant near you, browse The Scout Guide Directory.
Photography courtesy of Bianco’s.
RESTAURANT/CHEF: Chris Bianco of Tratto, Pane Bianco and Pizzeria Bianco
ACCOLADE: Outstanding Restaurateur Winner
LOCATION: Phoenix, Arizona and Los Angeles, California
WHY THEY WON: What began as Pizzeria Bianco in a quaint Phoenix grocery store in 1988, with lines that were known to snake their way around the building hours before service, has expanded into multiple locations, a pasta joint, a sandwich shop, a bar, and a newly opened Los Angeles pizzeria.
WHAT OUR EDITOR SAYS: “Chris, who also won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest in 2003, helped spawn a generation of independent and artisanal pizzerias, lending his advice, wisdom, and food philosophies to dozens of fellow chefs and restaurateurs,” says Sasha Clements, editor of The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale.