The fact that Blue Hill at Stone Barns won the top award for outstanding restaurant Monday sets up a potentially interesting rivalry for 2016. New York's Per Se was a finalist in the category, a national award honoring restaurants in operation for 10-plus years. Its loss typically points to a repeat nomination the following year. But next year, Alinea, the three Michelin-starred Chicago restaurant from chef Grant Achatz, will be eligible for the first time in this category and is likely to be a finalist. Per Se chef Thomas Keller was a mentor to Achatz during their time together at The French Laundry in Yountville, Calif. (Achatz even named one of his sons Keller in tribute.) Added to this possible storyline is the factor of home field advantage: the Beard Awards will once again be held in Chicago next year, as well as in 2017.