The James Beard Foundation (JBF) and Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today embark on a new multi-year partnership by announcing Marea in New York City as the Best New Restaurant in the U.S. at the prestigious James Beard Foundation Awards 2010. Described as the “Oscars” of the food world, the James Beard Foundation Awards bestows the highest honors on chefs and restaurants working in America. Owned and operated by chef Michael White and restaurateur Chris Cannon, Marea displays excellence in food, beverage, and service and is expected to have a significant impact on the industry for years to come.

Sharing the same commitment to heritage and excellence makes Mercedes-Benz and the James Beard Foundation a natural fit. As the inventor of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with automotive excellence with a long legacy of advancements in vehicle technology from safety to design.
Under its partnership with the James Beard Foundation, MBUSA is developing a program of activity designed to bring greater value to its customers and celebrate excellence in cooking. Scheduled activities include the offer of a Friend membership to all Mercedes-Benz owners and a $75 James Beard House dining certificate, as well as special promotional offers, such as a 15 percent discount at the James Beard House in New York City during the month of May.

“We’re very pleased to support the James Beard Foundation in recognizing the top chefs and restaurants in the country,” said Stephen Cannon, vice president of marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. “For well over a century, the Mercedes-Benz brand has brought forward the best of the best in pursuit of delivering to our customers the epitome of the ownership experience. That commitment is mirrored in the dedication and effort these top chefs and restaurants strive for with their own customers.”
“For more than a century, Mercedes-Benz has represented the finest quality and taste around the world,” said Susan Ungaro, president of the James Beard Foundation. “We are proud to partner with a company that truly appreciates extraordinary American cuisine and emerging talent in the restaurant industry.”

In addition to the announcement of The Best New Restaurant, Mercedes-Benz USA will also support the James Beard Foundation Celebrity Chef Tour, a yearlong series showcasing America’s most innovative culinary talent throughout 22 cities across the U.S. and on the James Beard Foundation’s Chef and Champagne event, an annual tasting that honors a culinary icon and features more than 30 celebrated chefs.