Sarah Simmons

Before the winner of this year's James Beard Foundation Award for "Outstanding Chef" is announced tonight, get to know the contenders.

Before the winner of this year's James Beard Award for "Outstanding Chef" is announced this coming Monday, May 3, get to know the contenders--and try some of their food.

Before the winner of this year's James Beard Award for "Outstanding Chef" is announced this coming Monday, May 3, get to know the contenders--and cook some their food.

Before the winner of this year's James Beard Award for "Outstanding Chef" is announced this coming Monday, March 3, get to know the contenders--and cook some of their food. Here you'll meet Jose Andres, the chef credited with bringing traditional Spanish food and tapas to America.

Before the winner of this year's James Beard Award for "Outstanding Chef" is announced, get to know the contenders. First up: San Francisco chef Charles Phan.