"Founded in 1986, the James Beard Foundation celebrates, nurtures, and honors America's diverse culinary heritage through programs that educate and inspire. A cookbook author and teacher with an encyclopedic knowledge about food, the late James Beard was a champion of American cuisine. In honor of his legacy, each year the James Beard Foundation bestows the America's Classic award to local eateries that are recognized as institutions in their communities, the kind of unassuming places that serve up soul-satisfying food. This cookbook tells the poignant stories behind these restaurants, many of which have been operated by multiple generations within the same family, and collects their recipes for dishes that are sure to stir a craving for home."--