The James Beard Foundation recently announced its 2022 winners, and two Arizona chefs were honored. Phoenix-based Chris Bianco was recognized as Outstanding Restaurateur, while Don Guerra of Tucson's Barrio bread earned the title of Outstanding Baker.
Bianco launched Pizzeria Bianco from the corner of a Phoenix grocery store in 1988. It became so popular, people lined up hours before service began. Today, the Bronx-born icon has expanded the business to include two Pizzeria Bianco locations, Pane Bianco and Tratto. "I started a pizzeria in 1988," he said during the awards ceremony. "I didn't know what I was doing then, I don't know what I'm doing now. But what I do know is that I'm grateful." Bianco also earned Best Chef in the Southwest during the 2003 Beard Awards, making him the first piazzaiolo to win in the category.
Don Guerra opened Barrio Bread in 2016. Today, his shop offers a rotating daily menu of bread, all made with heritage grains and local, organic flour. Guerra was also a Beard Awards finalist in 2019 and 2020. "I've been making bread for three decades," he said in his 2022 acceptance speech. "I never imagined I'd get here."
The mission of the James Beard Foundation is to "celebrate, support and elevate the people behind America's food culture and champion a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability."
For more information about Pizzeria Bianco, visit pizzeriabianco.com. For more information about Barrio Bread, visit barriobread.com.