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Congratulations to Chef Serigne Mbaye of Dakar NOLA on being named Best Chef in the South at the 2026 James Beard Awards® last month on June 15. Finalists were Link Restaurant Group, EJ Lagasse and Ana Castro.
The award honors exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, while recognizing a commitment to equity, community, sustainability and fostering a culture where everyone thrives – values that we share in New Orleans.
With James Beard, Michelin, Bocuse D’Or, Pastry World Cup and North America’s 50 Best, New Orleans & Company is working to elevate our culinary assets globally and draw visitors to our city.