2025 Finalists

Over the past decade, the Foodist Awards have become a cornerstone event in Arizona’s culinary and beverage scene, celebrating excellence, innovation, and passion in the industry. Since its inception, the Foodist Awards have evolved into a prestigious platform that honors the very best tastes, faces, and places across the state. It’s a testament to the remarkable growth and diversity of Arizona’s food and beverage landscape, showcasing the talents of chefs, mixologists, restaurateurs, and artisans who continually push the boundaries of creativity and quality.

Each year, the nominations pour in from enthusiastic patrons, industry insiders, and discerning foodies, highlighting the establishments and individuals that have made a significant impact on the culinary scene. From neighborhood gems to acclaimed fine dining destinations, the nominees represent the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that define Arizona’s gastronomic identity.

The nomination process is open to the public. Finalists and winners are chosen by a panel of industry experts, organized by The Arizona Restaurant Association.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

STANDOUT SIGNATURE DISH – The dishes in this category have become synonymous with the restaurant, and are often the dishes that customers rave about and come back for. These dishes are the chefs’ creative expression and showcase their culinary skills. These dishes are not only delicious but also visually stunning, and are often a reflection of the restaurant’s concept, culture, and identity.

• Beef Rendang, Kembara
• Beef Wellington, Wren & Wolf
• Birria Dumplings, Santo

Most Crave-Worthy Burger  –This award honors the burger that rises above the rest, setting the standard for flavor, quality, and creativity. From perfectly seasoned patties to unique toppings and unforgettable buns, these burgers capture everything we crave in a great bite. Juicy, delicious, and packed with personality, these finalists have mastered the art of the burger, winning the hearts (and taste buds) of Arizona.

• Double Burger, Bad Jimmy’s
• Hush Burger, Fire at Will
• The Great One, Chuckbox

Top Sushi Restaurant – As Arizona’s sushi scene has flourished, the range of choices has become endless—from beloved local hole-in-the-wall favorites to globally recognized dining destinations. This award celebrates the sushi spot that sets the standard with impeccable freshness, authentic flavors, and creative flair. From classic sashimi to inventive rolls, these nominees deliver an exceptional sushi experience, elevating Arizona as a true sushi destination.

• Across the Pond
• Sushi Friend
• Uchi Sushi

Arizona Grown Purveyors – This award honors the incredible purveyors who are the backbone of Arizona’s restaurant industry. From farm-fresh meats and dairy to artisan breads and locally distilled spirits, these suppliers ensure that chefs and restaurateurs have the best ingredients to craft unforgettable dining experiences. Their dedication to quality, sustainability, and supporting the local food ecosystem helps define what makes Arizona’s culinary scene truly exceptional. These purveyors not only provide ingredients, but they also fuel the creativity and passion that make our restaurants thrive.

• Hayden Flour Mill
• Noble Bread
• Ramona Farms

Favorite Local Craft Beer – This category honors the best craft beers produced by local breweries in Arizona. The winner of this category is a beer that not only has excellent taste but also provides an outstanding and enjoyable drinking experience, showcasing the richness and diversity of the local craft beer scene in Arizona.

• American Pie, Cider Corps
• Church Music, The Shop Beer Co.
• Spellbinder, Wren House Brewing

Most Creative Handcrafted Cocktail Program – This category recognizes the establishments that are pushing the boundaries of mixology and making their mark on the local cocktail scene. The nominees in this category showcase their bartenders’ creativity, technical skills, and use of unique ingredients and techniques to create truly memorable cocktails. These cocktails are not only delicious but also visually stunning, and often reflect the establishment’s concept, culture, and identity.

• Bar 1912
• Barcoa Agaveria
• Poppy’s Office

EXPERIENCES

Outstandin Bar/Nightlife Experience – Honors the best bars and nightclubs in Arizona that provide an exceptional and memorable experience for their patrons. These establishments are known for their vibrant atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and innovative drinks and entertainment.

This category also highlights the bars and nightclubs that offer a unique concept, theme, or atmosphere, as well as those that are known for their live music, DJs or other forms of entertainment. These establishments are not only a place to get a drink but also a destination for a night out and a great social experience.

• 50 Shades of Rosé
• Barcoa Agaveria
• Little Rituals

Ultimate Patio Atmosphere – With Arizona’s beautiful weather for much of the year, an inviting patio is a must for memorable dining. This award honors those establishments that go above and beyond to create exceptional outdoor atmospheres where guests can enjoy the warmth, scenery, and ambiance unique to Arizona. From thoughtful design to comfort and style, these patios offer guests the ultimate al fresco experience.

• Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn
• Lou’s at Papago Golf
• Thea

Exceptional Culinary Experience – The nominees in this category are judged on their overall experience, including the quality of the food, the knowledge and friendliness of the staff, the atmosphere of the restaurant, the level of service, the variety of menu offerings, and the level of creativity and originality.

Whether it’s at a sit-down restaurant, a catering event, or a pop-up dinner. This category recognizes the restaurants and culinary professionals that are providing an outstanding and memorable experience for their patrons, regardless of the format.

• Atria
• Course
• Vecina

Iconic Speakeasy Experience – This award celebrates the hidden gems that bring mystery and flair to Arizona’s nightlife. These standout speakeasies create an unforgettable experience, from secret entrances to unique decor, transporting guests to another era. With innovative cocktails, intimate vibes, and a touch of intrigue, these spots deliver a one-of-a-kind escape that keeps patrons coming back for more.

• Little Debbie’s
• Poppy’s Office
• Tell Your Friends

RESTAURANTS

Emerging Restaurant of the Year – Honors new and up-and-coming restaurants in Arizona that have made a significant impact on the local dining scene. This category recognizes restaurants that have opened in 2024 and have quickly established themselves as top contenders in the industry.

• Le Ame
• Mensho Ramen
• Pizza to the Rescue

Uniquely Arizona – We are searching statewide for restaurants that embrace the local food culture, ingredients, and flavors and are dedicated to preserving the state’s culinary heritage. The nominees in this category showcase their creativity, use of locally sourced ingredients and dedication to honoring Arizona’s rich culinary traditions.

• Mariposa
• Oldtown Tortilla Factory
• Richardson’s

Outstanding Hospitality Group – This category recognizes groups that own and operate multiple restaurants, bars, or nightclubs in the state, and have demonstrated exemplary talent, showcase innovation and have already distinguished themselves as pacesetters in hospitality space.

• Genuine Concepts
• Haunted Group
• In-Good Spirits

Phenomenal Fast Casual Concept – This category recognizes restaurants that create unique and memorable fast casual dining experiences, and for their ability to balance speed and convenience with quality and taste, often with limited space.

• Amelia’s by EAT
• Taco Chelo
• Worth Takeaway

PEOPLE

Team Member of the Year – All of our industry team members deserve applause, but this category will help tell the stories of a few who are anchors of the industry. The category recognizes a team member who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, hard work, and commitment to providing an outstanding dining experience for the customers.

• Ann Nowak, Citizen Public House
• Avelina Young, El Charro Café, Yuma
• Daniela Torres, Spoke & Wheel, Sedona

Manager of the Year – Every year The Foodist Awards honor a few finalists and one winner as the Manager of the Year. The nominees for this award is are individuals who manage and lead the restaurant’s day-to-day operations and is responsible for ensuring that the restaurant runs smoothly, effectively and efficiently. They lead by example and foster an atmosphere of growth and learning for fellow team members, creating a culture of excellence that is reflected in the restaurant’s performance, and in the satisfaction of the customers.

• Brendon Franko, Wildflower
• Jacqueline Verge, The Americano
• Ryan Blumenfurth, Ling & Louie’s

Top Mixologist/Bartender – This category recognizes a bartender or mixologist’s ability to mix and serve drinks with precision, passion and creativity while providing excellent customer service. They have demonstrated exceptional skills, dedication, and commitment to providing an outstanding drinking experience for customers.

• Michael Hopper, Atria
• Lexi, Thompson 105
• PJ Vader Baron, Melinda’s Alley/Hyatt

 

Top Chef – Pays tribute to outstanding culinary excellence, breaking new ground with an innovative menu while enhancing the dining experience. This individual has made a significant impact on the culinary scene in Arizona but still continues to improve and develop their skills, and to make a positive impact on the restaurant and the community.

• Anthony Apolinar, Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse
• Claudio Urciuoli, Source
• Ivan Gonzalez, Wren & Wolf

Food Pioneer – Lifetime Achievement Award. Honors a lifetime of outstanding culinary excellence that continues to educate, inspire, entertain and foster a deeper understanding of the culinary culture in Arizona. Voted on by peers!

• Chris Bianco