Deloitte and the James Beard Foundation®
Developing an appetite for what’s next
Deloitte and the James Beard Foundation (JBF) are bringing fresh perspectives to the table that can help drive the independent restaurant industry forward.
The 2026 Independent Restaurant Industry Report
The James Beard Foundation 2026 Independent Restaurant Industry Report, created in collaboration with Deloitte, brings together insights from more than 700 restaurant owners and professionals. This comprehensive report explores the current landscape while identifying emerging opportunities and strategic approaches that can help the independent restaurant industry thrive in 2026 and beyond.
Insights independent restaurants can serve with confidence
Deloitte brings sophisticated data analysis and deep industry knowledge to help JBF reach independent operators at scale to uncover insights that matter. We layer quantitative surveys with qualitative research through interviews and roundtables in multiple cities.
This work supports JBF’s flagship industry report, an annual thought leadership resource that provides thousands of independent restaurants with data and strategies to help support their growth.
Trending in fresh
Explore some of Deloitte’s latest food industry insights
Spotlighting key JBF initiatives
Explore how these initiatives advance the Foundation’s Good Food for Good® mission, helping to create lasting impact across the culinary community.
The James Beard House programs and impact
Born from the legacy of James Beard himself, the Beard House provides a space for practicing the culinary arts, hosting special events, and fostering an environment to celebrate the people behind America’s food system—including participants in JBF’s community and impact programs.
The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® culinary series
The Taste America culinary series spotlights the independent restaurants at the heart of American communities. Through 20 markets nationwide, the TasteTwenty chefs celebrate diverse culinary voices and demonstrate that excellent food isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s also about the values behind it. These dinners and tastings are designed to bring communities together around the restaurants that define local food culture and drive toward a better food system.
