Arizona Restaurant Association 2025 Foodist Awards Nominations are Now Open

The Arizona Restaurant Association (ARA) is pleased to announce that nominations for its 2025 Foodist Awards is now open. Culinary enthusiasts are invited to help shine a spotlight on the talent innovation hard work and skill that those in the local hospitality industry showcase every day. Voters can also nominate their favorite local establishments in a variety of delicious categories.

Nominations are being accepted from Monday Nov. 18 through Sunday. Dec. 1. The 2025 Foodist Awards will take place at Warehouse215 located at 215 E. Grant St. on Monday March 24 2025 from 5-10 p.m. during which winners will be revealed live.

“We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 11th Annual Foodist Awards and to open our nominations for 2025” said Arizona Restaurant Association President and CEO Steve Chucri. “Each year we are delighted to help highlight the incredible people and businesses that put Arizona on the map as an unparalleled dining destination. Beyond what is on the plate or in the glass it is truly the people that make Arizona a burgeoning culinary hot spot.” 

For 11 years running the Foodist Awards has served to recognize the best of the best in a variety of categories that represent culinary excellence in the Arizona food and beverage industry. Finalists and the winners in each category are chosen by peers and the dining community as a whole.

Categories for the 2025 Foodist Awards are as follows:

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Standout Signature Dish

Most Crave-Worthy Burger

Best Vegan Delight

Favorite Local Craft Beer

Most Creative Handcrafted Cocktail Program

EXPERIENCES

Outstanding Bar/Nightlight Experiences

Exceptional Culinary Experience

Ultimate Patio Atmosphere

Coolest Speakeasy Experience

RESTAURANTS

Emerging Restaurant of the Year

Uniquely Arizona

Outstanding Hospitality Group

Phenomenal Fast Casual Concept

Top Sushi Restaurant

Best World Flavors

PEOPLE

Team Member of the Year

Manager of the Year

Top Mixologist/Bartender

Top Chef

Food Pioneer

The distinguished Food Pioneer Award is bestowed upon one much-deserving individual each year. This recognition serves as the Foodist Award’s lifetime achievement award honoring a longtime career of outstanding culinary excellence that continues to educate inspire entertain and foster a deeper understanding of the culinary culture in Arizona.

The nomination list and more about the Foodist Awards can be found at foodistawards.com.

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