MONDAY APRIL 7 TH
Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners of the 2025 Foodist Awards
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For more than a decade the Foodist awards has highlighted the top culinary talent in Arizona. Tonight we celebrate people that bring their passion to life each and every day in their restaurant through the food they serve and the smiles from guests in crowded dining rooms across Arizona. Our incredible industry makes a difference in people’s lives in so many ways. Not just in the culinary delights we offer but the amazing people we employ and that together is why we are Foodist. The chefs, mixologists, entrepreneurs and trailblazers of Arizona’s restaurant scene perform above expectations in setting new goals that are beyond measure for most.
Our growth is meaningful and substantial. This year we anticipate our sales to total more than $23 billion dollars with industry employment nearly reaching 300 thousand people who bring their extraordinary talent to our kitchens, dining rooms, patios and bars. On behalf of the Arizona Restaurant Association Board of Directors, I want to thank you and congratulate you on a job well done and wish you every success. Thank you for celebrating this evening with us!
Steve Chucri
Arizona Restaurant Association, President & CEO
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Oh! what a night it is as we celebrate Restaurants, our Mentors and past Honorees of Arizona’s Restaurants, Bars and Hospitality service.
As Chairwomen of the ARA, I am honored to present the “Best of the Best” voted by the public, your fellow restaurateurs and bar owners. Our passion is lived daily with total commitment to our industry as we work endless hours being creative, giving love with artistry on the plate to our loyal guests.
Tonight, we showcase a select group of Arizona’s talented chefs, bars and restaurants for their culinary skills, talents, delicious tastes, diverse and exciting menu planning.
We are proud leaders in culinary cuisine, enjoyed and rated highly by our supportive guests, communities and visitors to Arizona.
I feel great pride tonight as we enjoy this social evening of our industry peers, invited guests, also let’s take a moment to show our appreciation to the vendor support who are making this evening tasty and memorable for all.
I want to thank Steve Chucri, Dan Bogart, Jana Shelton and Jamie Stone for all they do for us, we rely on their industry wisdom, integrity, leadership with caring as they guide us through all times. We are appreciative for the many hours of planning the fun events we share together, all given with true heart.
I appreciate my time on the ARA Board getting to represent you, the restaurants. We are blessed and thankful as industry leaders, looking forward with excitement to the continued growth and popularity of our wonderful industry!
My best wishes always to you, fellow restaurateurs.
Lorrie Glaeser Chairwoman of
Board
ince its earliest days, the Arizona Restaurant Association has been driven by bold thinking and innovative ideas. When a small group of chefs and hospitality professionals founded the organization in 1939, there was no blueprint – only their vision. Today, we celebrate over 85 years of service to our industry, a vision that has grown into a network of leading visionaries, powering the state’s vibrant $23.1 billion culinary economy.
Lorrie Glaeser I Steets of New York
Justin Cohen I Riot Hospitality Group
Kristen Briede
Grant Krueger I Union Hospitality Group
Raveen Arora The Dhaba
Beth Cochran
Snooze A.M Eatery
Matt Derr
Southwest Gas
Colin Diaz
FocusonWIN Consulting
Michelle Fonda
Shamrock Foods
Brandy Grubaugh Eegee’s
Derek Gurney
Outback Steakhouse
Kevin Heinonen THAT Place Projects
Ryan Hibbert
Riot Hospitality Group
John Homan
ECOLAB
Matt Jacobson
Sysco
John Junker
St. Vincent de Paul
Michelle King US Foods
Dean McDonald
Swire Coca-Cola, USA
Berchman Melancon Uber Eats
Michael Merendino
Crust Restaurants
Oren Molovinsky
Don Guerro’s Bagel & Slice
Danny Piacquadio
Harold’s Cave Creek Corral
Tyler Vasquez
Heartland Business Solutions
Michele Woods
Aunt Chilada’s
Ian Yonushonis
Crescent Crown Distributing
We extend our sincere gratitude to our incredibly generous and loyal supporters. It is the generosity of community partners, including this year’s sponsors and table hosts, that empowers the Arizona Restaurant Association to secure a prosperous future for this dynamic industry. With their continued support, and yours, together we will achieve even greater success.
ARIZONA’S 2025 FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY IN NUMBERS
12,705
Total Number of Statewide Restaurants
266,814
Industry Employees
$21.9M $7.99B
Daily Industry Payroll: *not including tips* Annual Industry Payroll
$23.1B
Figures are projected for 2025
HERE’S TO THE CHEFS and THE BAKERS and THE COCKTAIL MAKERS.
WELL DONE, 2025 FOODIST AWARDS FINALISTS.
You make food worth traveling for.
Celebrating Arizona’s Food & Beverage Evolution & Successes
WELCOME
Steve Chucri, President and CEO, Arizona Restaurant Association
CHAIRWOMAN
Lorrie Glaeser, Streets of New York
Jaime Cerreta, AZ Family
Standout Signature Dish
Most Crave-Worthy Burger
Arizona Grown Purveyors
Favorite Local Craft Beer
Most Creative Handcrafted Cocktail Program
Outstanding Bar/Nightlife Experience
Ultimate Patio Atmosphere
Iconic Speakeasy Experience
Exceptional Culinary Experience
Phenomenal Fast Casual Concept
Top Sushi Restaurant
Outstanding Hospitality Group
Uniquely Arizona
Emerging Restaurant of the Year
Team Member of the Year
Manager of the Year
Top Mixologist/Bartender
Top Chef
Food Pioneer – Chris Bianco, Pizzeria Bianco, Bar Bianco, Pane Bianco & Tratto
Join us for an afterparty to toast to our 2025 Winners & Finalists
Thank you for creating such a dynamic and delicious restaurant scene across Arizona. Congratulations to the evening’s honorees. Here are some money-saving tips to help everyone win all year.
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Pizzeria Bianco, Tratto, Bar Bianco, Pane Bianco
Chef Chris Bianco is a renowned figure in the Arizona culinary scene, celebrated for his mastery in pizza-making and his dedication to highquality, locally sourced ingredients. As the owner of Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, Bianco has garnered national attention for his innovative approach to pizza, elevating it to a craft rather than a mere meal. His emphasis on artisanal techniques, coupled with a deep commitment to using the best local produce, has set a new standard for the state’s dining culture.
In addition to Pizzeria Bianco, Bianco has expanded his culinary empire with several other highly regarded concepts. Tratto, his Italian-inspired restaurant, highlights his passion for simple, rustic dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted pastas make it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Bar Bianco, a casual and vibrant wine bar, offers an extensive selection of wines and small plates, further showcasing Bianco’s commitment to community and hospitality. Additionally, Pane Bianco, a bakery and sandwich shop, brings to life Bianco’s love for bread and its role in Italian cuisine, offering artisanal loaves and sandwiches made with care.
Through these ventures, Bianco has broadened his influence, contributing significantly to Arizona’s culinary renaissance. His dedication to quality ingredients and craftsmanship has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from Bon Appétit as one of the top pizza makers in America. Beyond pizza, Chef Bianco has been an advocate for sustainability and the local food movement, working closely with Arizona farmers and purveyors. His work continues to inspire a new generation of chefs to focus on quality and innovation, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of the Arizona food scene.
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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.
These burgers rise 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.
These incredible purveyors 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.
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
Church Music
The Shop Beer Co.
Cider Corps Bar 1912
Barcoa Agaveria
Spellbinder Wren House Brewing Poppy’s Office
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.
This award 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
to the 2025 Foodist Award recipients. This recognition of excellence reaches beyond Arizona, and puts our culinary scene on the map of future visitors.
If you’d like to find out more about pairing with Visit Phoenix to capture this audience of travelers, diners, foodies, bloggers and influencers, we have the perfect opportunity for you. Contact Katie Provot at kprovot@visitphoenix.com.
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.
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.
Tell Your Friends
The finalists in this category are graded 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.
Atria Course Restaurant Vecina
Honors 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
This award highlights the sushi spots that set 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 Scottsdale
Recognizes groups that own and operate multiple restaurants, bars, or nightclubs in the state, and have demonstrate exemplary talent, showcase innovation and have already distinguished themselves as pacesetters in hospitality space.
Genuine Concepts The Haunted Group In-Good Spirits
The nominees in this category showcase their creativity, use of locally sourced ingredients and dedication to honoring Arizona’s rich culinary traditions. Through their commitment to quality and authenticity, these nominees not only elevate the dining experience but also celebrate and preserve the region’s gastronomic heritage.
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.
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.
Recognizes individuals who manage and lead the restaurant’s dayto-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
Honoring 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 Scott Thompson 105
PJ Vader Baron Melinda’s Alley/Hyatt
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
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