Chefs Chris Bianco of Phoenix's Pizzeria Bianco and baker Don Guerra of Tucson's Barrio Bread took home  major honors Monday at the James Beard Awards.

Known as the "Oscars of the Food World," the James Beard Foundation named Bianco "Outstanding Restaurateur" for his work at Tratto, Pane Bianco and Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix.

Guerra was given the "Outstanding Baker" award during an event  at  the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

“We are delighted to finally be back in Chicago celebrating the 2022 Restaurant and Chef Awards and bringing attention to our industry, that still needs support," said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation.

"Tonight, as we recognize outstanding food and beverage professionals, we also honor our entire industry—and the incredible resilience, fortitude, talent, and leadership so many have shown over the past two years.”

The James Beard Awards, considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, "recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability and a culture where all can thrive," according to a release naming the winners.

This is Bianco's second James Beard Award. He won "Best Chef - Southwest" in 2003.

Other major awards went to:

Outstanding Chef

• Mashama Bailey, The Grey, Savannah, GA

Outstanding Restaurant, Presented by Acqua Panna® Natural Spring Water

• Chai Pani, Asheville, NC

Emerging Chef, Presented by S. Pellegrino® Sparkling Mineral Water

• Edgar Rico, Nixta Taqueria, Austin

Best New Restaurant, Presented by BentoBox

• Owamni, Minneapolis

Outstanding Pastry Chef

• Warda Bouguettaya, Warda Pâtisserie, Detroit

Best Chef: Southwest (AZ, NM, NV, OK)

• Fernando Olea, Sazón, Santa Fe