Smyth Tops North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2026, Displacing Inaugural Leader

Event summary

  • Smyth in Chicago named #1 in North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2026, rising from #4 in 2025.
  • 18 new restaurants entered the 2026 list, including Eight in Calgary at #2 and Edulis in Toronto at #25.
  • Emeril Lagasse received the SevenRooms Icon Award, recognizing his influence on American cuisine.
  • Atelier Crenn won the Sustainable Restaurant Award for its environmentally responsible practices.
  • Albi in Washington DC won the Highest Climber Award, rising 28 places from the inaugural list.

The big picture

The 2026 rankings highlight a shift towards hyper-local sourcing and sustainability, with Smyth's rise reflecting the growing value of intimate, ingredient-driven dining experiences. The inclusion of 18 new restaurants signals expanding culinary diversity across North America, particularly in emerging food cities. The awards also underscore the industry's recognition of both established icons like Emeril Lagasse and rising stars like Eunji Lee.

What we're watching

Sustainability Leadership
Whether Atelier Crenn's plastic-free and regenerative agriculture model can be replicated by other high-ranking restaurants.
Regional Expansion
The pace at which new cities like Atlanta, Calgary, and Minneapolis establish themselves as culinary destinations.
Legacy Transition
How Emeril Lagasse's passing of the torch to his son E.J. will impact Emeril's long-term influence on New Orleans' culinary scene.