DC’s James Beard Finalists Unite for One-Night-Only Collaborative Dinner

On Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at 6:00 PM, join some of the District’s most celebrated culinary talents for an exclusive dining experience at The Shell (517 8th St SE). The James Beard DC Finalists Dinner will bring together several of this year’s James Beard Award finalists for a one-night-only collaboration, offering guests the rare opportunity to enjoy the creative voices defining Washington’s dynamic food scene—all under one roof. Hosted by Outstanding Restaurateur Finalists Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno of The Fried Rice Collective—known for acclaimed DC concepts like Anju, CHĪKO, I Egg You, and District Catering—the evening will feature a multi-course meal curated by a powerhouse lineup of 2025 finalists, including Carlos Delgado (Causa, Amazonia) for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic, Susan Bae (Moon Rabbit) for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, Henji Cheung (Queen's English) for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic, and Miguel Guerra & Tatiana Mora (MITA) for Best New Restaurant. A welcome cocktail will kick off the evening, followed by a collaborative dinner highlighting bold, cross-cultural flavors. Guests will enjoy an immersive tasting menu that celebrates the diversity, innovation, and camaraderie of DC’s culinary community, with each chef presenting a course reflective of their unique style and vision. Tickets are $150++ and include a multi-course dinner and welcome cocktail. Limited seating is available. Click HERE to reserve your spot.