Get ready to raise a glass (and a fork) because the 2025 edition of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, is heating things up with more than just culinary greatness. Alongside the prestigious rankings of the continent’s top dining destinations, the awards have introduced a brand-new honor: the Champions of Change Award—and its very first recipient is already inspiring some serious community love.
Meet Asmeret Berhe-Lumax, the powerhouse behind One Love Community Fridge, a nonprofit that’s redefining what it means to care for your neighbors. From fashion and beauty executive to food justice trailblazer, Asmeret has flipped the script, transforming her network and resources into a growing movement of mutual aid and sustainable nourishment.
What started in 2020 with a single fridge in Brooklyn has grown into a network of 10 community fridges and support for 30 partner fridges across New York City and Seattle—soon expanding to Los Angeles and Atlanta. One Love Community Fridge doesn’t just feed people; it empowers them. Partnering with local farmers, gardens, chefs, schools, and more, the organization provides access to fresh, nutritious food and promotes education, dignity, and sustainability.
William Drew, Director of Content for North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, said it best: “Asmeret has created not just access to fresh, healthy food, but also a powerful community-led movement grounded in inclusion, education, and sustainability.”
The award includes a financial donation from the 50 Best organization to help One Love Community Fridge continue its impactful mission—and it couldn’t come at a better time.
“This support not only amplifies the reach and impact but will also serve as a powerful inspiration for others to join in,” said Asmeret. “This award is a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together. One Love Community Fridge embodies the power of food to nourish, unite, and promote health and healing rooted in dignity.”
While You’re Here… Let’s Talk Food
Of course, it wouldn’t be the 50 Best without celebrating the delicious side of things. While we wait for the full 2025 list to drop at the awards ceremony on September 25, here are just a few of the past mouthwatering standouts:
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🍽️ Atomix (New York City) – Elevated Korean dining like you’ve never experienced.
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🌮 Quintonil (Mexico City) – Modern Mexican flavors with a sustainable heart.
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🥩 Bucksburn (Toronto) – The steakhouse reimagined with serious Canadian flair.
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🍷 Pujol (Mexico City) – Where mole becomes magic.
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🐟 Providence (Los Angeles) – West Coast seafood that’s as refined as it is responsible.
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🥟 Kato (Los Angeles) – Taiwanese-American fusion with finesse.
Stay tuned for the full lineup of North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 and more stories that prove food can change the world.
👉 For more info, visit: www.theworlds50best.com/northamerica
One love, one fridge, one big win.
