Do chefs and restaurants have to be members of the James Beard Foundation to be invited to cook at the Beard House?
No. Chefs and restaurants are considered based on their merit, their menu, and their ability to execute a banquet dinner for up to 80 guests. Once a chef, winemaker, or guest speaker is invited to participate in a Beard House event he/she will receive a complimentary Food and Beverage Professional level membership to the James Beard Foundation for one year.
