THE 41ST ANNUAL

NJRHA Awards

Celebrating excellence in New Jersey hospitality

Thursday, November 5, 2026 • 5 – 9 p.m.
The Stone Terrace • Hamilton, New Jersey

Honoring New Jersey’s Hospitality Community

The NJRHA Awards ceremony recognizes the individuals and organizations who shape New Jersey’s hospitality industry – from restaurateurs and chefs to hoteliers, educators, attractions and industry supporters. Join us as we celebrate this year’s distinguished honorees and their contributions to hospitality across the Garden State.

Celebrating Excellence

2026 Award Recipients

Restaurateur of the Year

The Bonfiglio Family

Triple T Hospitality Group

Hotelier of the Year

Robby Younes

Crystal Springs Resort

Deborah Dowdell Lifetime Achievement Award

Jeanne Cretella

by Landmark

Hospitality Award

Steve Sanders

Sea Breeze Syrups

Friend of the Industry

Senator Vin Gopal

New Jersey State Senate – 11th District

Community Impact Award

Trenton Area Soup Kitchen

Attraction of the Year

Adventure Aquarium

ProStart Teacher of the Year

Rory Philipson

Mercer County Technical Schools

Coming Soon

2026 Chef of the Year Finalists

Cliff Crooks

Viv & Jules, Hoboken

Aishling Stevens

The Grand Tavern, Neptune

Dennis Foy

de floret, Lambertville

Allen Walski

Clemmy's, Waretown

Joseph Sergentakis

Revell Hall, Burlington

Nick DeRosa

Black Sheep, Garwood

Conor Browne

Lula, Ridgewood

Sam Stymest

Sam's Table, Montclair

Public Voting

Official voting will be open to the public from Monday, October 12, through Friday, October 23 at 5:00 pm. Check back soon for finalist announcements and voting information.

Celebrate With Us

Tickets, sponsorships and program advertising opportunities for the 41st NJRHA Awards are available now.

TICKETS & SPONSORSHIPS