New strategic partnership expands access to chef-driven dining experiences nationwide while empowering the next generation of culinary talent

CookUnity, the chef-to-consumer meal delivery platform, today announced a landmark partnership as the first exclusive meal delivery partner of the James Beard Foundation’s Taste America culinary series.

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Through this collaboration, CookUnity will serve as the Exclusive Chef-Crafted Meal Partner for the JBF’s acclaimed Taste America culinary series, activating across 20 U.S. cities from July 2025 through March 2026. The partnership aims to broaden access to James Beard-level cuisine while creating new opportunities for rising chefs to scale their craft beyond the restaurant walls.

For chefs, this partnership unlocks a new level of reach and independence. On CookUnity, chefs earn an average of $750,000 annually, with top performers exceeding $5 million. By joining the platform, chefs gain direct access to a nationwide audience, enabling creative freedom and business growth without the operational burden of traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants.

"We are thrilled to welcome CookUnity to the James Beard Foundation family," said Clare Reichenbach, CEO, James Beard Foundation. "Their platform is redefining how chefs connect with consumers, offering a powerful new model for career diversification and sustainability—which aligns well with our work to support a more resilient restaurant industry and thriving food culture."

The partnership debuted at the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago on June 16, where attendees enjoyed dishes curated by Chef Jose Garces, Iron Chef, James Beard Award winner, and one of CookUnity’s highest-rated chefs.

"The James Beard Awards honor chefs who push boundaries and shape the future of food—the very ethos that drives us at CookUnity," said Mateo Marietti, CEO at CookUnity. "This strategic partnership represents a shared commitment to uplifting culinary talent and reimagining how chefs build meaningful careers."

Later this year, CookUnity will launch a JBF collection of curated dishes crafted by James Beard Foundation-affiliated and award-winning chefs. This collection will make world-class cuisine from some of the country’s premier chefs more accessible than ever before, and will be available only on CookUnity.

This collaboration underscores a shared mission between CookUnity and JBF: to champion chefs and create pathways for the next generation of culinary innovators.

About CookUnity

CookUnity is a premium, chef-made meal delivery platform that connects top chefs with discerning consumers seeking restaurant-quality meals delivered to their doorstep. With a mission to redefine convenience without compromising on taste or quality, CookUnity offers a diverse menu curated by culinary professionals, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Through innovative partnerships and a commitment to culinary excellence, CookUnity aims to reimagine the home dining experience, making chef-prepared meals accessible to food enthusiasts throughout North America. With thousands of recipes developed by top chefs, CookUnity offers the greatest range of cuisines for food enthusiasts. Learn more at CookUnity.com.

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