2016 FOODIST AWARD WINNERS

Uniquely Arizona – Home to some of the oldest documented food traditions, Arizona has a rich culinary past steeped in tradition.  We are searching statewide for the restaurants that embrace not only the local food but are staples of the state.

Lon’s at the Hermosa

Food Pioneer – Honors a lifetime of outstanding culinary excellence that continues to educate, inspire, entertain and foster a deeper understanding of the culinary culture in Arizona.

Joe Johnston (Liberty Market, Joe’s Real BBQ, Joe’s Farm Grill)

Top Chef – Pays tribute to outstanding culinary excellence, breaking new ground with an innovative menu while enhancing the dining experience.

Kevin Binkley (Binkley’s, Bink’s Midtown, Bink’s Kitchen + Bar, Cafe Bink)

Innovative Restaurant Concept – Recognizes a restaurateur or restaurant group who demonstrates that they don’t follow trends; they define them, setting the bar in restaurant operations and the overall customer dining experience.

Kai

Outstanding Multiple Location Restaurant – Honors a culinary concept with multiple locations, demonstrating exceptional achievement and commitment to excellence in marketing, menu design and customer service.

Nook Kitchen

Emerging Restaurant of the Year – Honors promising up-and-comers that demonstrate exemplary talent, showcase innovation and have already distinguished themselves as pacesetters in food, beverage and service.

Ocotillo

Restaurant Employee – Recognizes the front or back of house employee that has set the gold standard for exemplary customer service and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Laura Baldassarre, Employee (Wildflower Bread Company)

Premier Cocktail Program – Recognizes an outstanding restaurant or bar that demonstrates excellence and innovation in their cocktail program.

Counter Intuitive

Premier Beer Program – Recognizes an outstanding restaurant or bar that demonstrates excellence and innovation in their beer program.

Culinary Dropout

Premier Wine Program – Recognizes an outstanding restaurant or bar that demonstrates excellence and innovation in their wine program.

Southern Rail

Good Neighbor – Recognizes the outstanding community leadership and exceptional devotion to making a difference in our neighborhoods and community at large.

Joy Bus

Outstanding Food Truck – Recognizes outstanding achievement in mobile nourishment, operations and community development.

Chef Wade’s Bistro on Wheels

Best Dish “Dessert” – Honors the restaurant that quite simply does it best.

Sumo Maya (Tres Leches)