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.