CRAZIES 2024 Program

Tonig igh ht we savor

Congratulations to all of the 2024 nominees and winners.

F OX W O OD S .C OM / DI N I NG

TABLE OF CONTENTS About the CRA...................................................................................................7 Welcome from President & CEO .......................................................................9 CRA Chairman’s Message.................................................................................11 CHEF Chairman’s Message...............................................................................13 CRA Board of Directors....................................................................................15 CHEF Board of Directors..................................................................................17 Event Sponsors...............................................................................................19 Event Sponsors...............................................................................................21 Program...........................................................................................................25 Lifetime Achievement Award - Edward “Bud” F. O’Donnell, Jr., Esq. .................27 Friend of the Industry - Rep. Kerry Wood ........................................................29 Connecticut Hospitality Hall of Fame - Red Rock Tavern..................................31 Connecticut Hospitality Hall of Fame - Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough .............33 Restaurateurs of the Year - Eli Hawli & Sam DeVellis .......................................35 Finalists - Vendor, Caterer, Bartender & Server .............................................37 Finalists - Pastry Chef, People’s Choice, Newcomer & Chef ...........................39 Finalists - County Restaurants of the Year .....................................................41 CT Hospitality Educational Foundation ..........................................................43

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

3

SUPPORTING LOCAL RESTAURANTS. SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY.

US Foods® is one of America’s great food companies and a leading supplier to restaurants and foodservice operators. Working with food people and the communities they serve is our passion, and we understand the importance of making a positive impact where we live and work. US Foods is proud to help chefs and restaurateurs in communities across the country make it every day.

FINE WINES & SPIRITS

Congratulates The CRAZIES Nominees & Winners!

We would like to express our sincere thanks to all of Connecticut’s restaurant personnel, restaurants and bars for your continued dedication to making our state’s hospitality industry second to none.

CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION

CRA Members at an Advocacy Roundtable Event in Hartford

CRA STAFF

PRESIDENT & CEO Scott Dolch dolch@ctrestaurant.org

VP SALES & OPERATIONS Yvette M. Tavares tavares@ctrestaurant.org

FOUNDATION DIRECTOR Jennifer Conkling-Schmitz conkling@ctrestaurant.org

MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS MANAGER Elizabeth Barry barry@ctrestaurant.org

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Katie Gerber gerber@ctrestaurant.org

EDUCATION ASSISTANT Shannon Murphy murphy@ctrestaurant.org

PUBLIC AFFAIRS ASSISTANT Chase Prentiss prentiss@ctrestaurant.org

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION The Connecticut Restaurant Association is a champion serving every restaurant and hospitality business in Connecticut. We unite our industry so that it can speak together with one clear voice. We provide our members with timely information, cost-effective benefits, and a dynamic networking platform. Our industry employs more than 151,000 workers in Connecticut and generates $12.2 billion in annual sales. The CRA works in partnership with the Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) to protect, advance, and educate our growing industry.

Your voice as a member is an important part of the success of our community. By investing in membership, you will have a platform to amplify your voice, gain access to business-building tools and develop meaningful relationships with your peers.

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

7

Congratulations to all of tonight’s 2024 Honorees & Nominees

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS.

A full line distributor focused on local support, we offer a wide variety of products to help make you successful.

Looking f orward to helping y ou grow!

Check out what makes Performance Springfield have Performance Edge with our Specialist team!

800-388-0257

|

www.performancefoodservice.com/springfield

WELCOME TO THE 2024 CRAZIES The Connecticut Restaurant Association extends a warm and grateful welcome to all attendees of the 2024 CRAZIES Awards.

As we gather tonight to celebrate another year of excellence in Connecticut’s hospitality industry, I am honored to be a part of this exciting event with you. The CRAZIES has become a unifying tradition that brings together members of our association, partners in industry and local government, as well as countless friends, families, and supporters, all celebrating Connecticut’s thriving restaurant community.

Year after year, our industry has shown its resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges which have impacted all our member businesses and your employees. Yet in the face of adversity, the adaptability of restaurants and hospitality professionals remains unmatched. Your dedication to providing exceptional service is a testament to the world-class experiences you deliver to customers across the state.

As part of my commitment to the restaurant industry here in Connecticut, I was honored to be elected to the National Restaurant Association Board of Directors for 2025. This is an extraordinary opportunity to represent Connecticut on the national stage, where I will advocate for the needs of our industry and contribute to shaping a future that ensures our continued growth and success.

We are grateful for the progress we’ve achieved together, while acknowledging that challenges remain. As we look ahead to a new year, we are unwavering in our dedication to work as a united industry, confronting all that lies ahead and coming out stronger on the other side.

A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, whose support makes this 2024 CRAZIES Awards Gala possible, and congratulations to all honorees and finalists. Let us celebrate tonight in recognition of the incredible contributions of the Connecticut restaurant community. Thank you all!

Scott Dolch President & CEO

Connecticut Restaurant Association CT Hospitality Educational Foundation

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

9

CONGRATULATIONS to all the nominees and winners at the

CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION from your partners at

CRA CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Welcome to the 2024 CRAZIES Awards Gala! As Chairman of the Connecticut Restaurant Association Board of Directors, I’m thrilled to welcome you all and extend heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and members for your unwavering support of the CRA. It is truly rewarding to be part of an organization that advocates for our industry by collaborating with stakeholders, shaping impactful legislation, and building relationships across the state.

Each year, the CRAZIES celebrate the forward momentum of the restaurant industry as we look ahead to another year of energy, engagement, and progress.

As an independent, single-location restaurant owner and operator, I know firsthand the challenges we face—inflation, staffing shortages, and supply chain disruptions, to name a few. Yet I’m optimistic about what 2025 holds for Connecticut’s restaurants, caterers, and event venues. Our members have shown remarkable resilience, and with the CRA’s continued dedication, I am confident we’ll navigate what lies ahead together.

Congratulations to our honorees, finalists, and winners tonight! Here’s to a prosperous and thriving 2025 for Connecticut’s restaurant industry!

Keith Beaulieu Owner The Main Pub (Manchester, CT)

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

11

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION Congratulations To All! THE BEST OF THE BEST IN THE CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT INDUSTRY!

CHEF CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Welcome to the 2024 CRAZIES Awards Gala!

Tonight, we celebrate the people who make Connecticut’s hospitality industry thrive. The CRAZIES represent the best of our industry—those whose passion and professionalism have created meaningful careers and built strong communities.

As a chef, restaurateur, executive director of an organization that uses the culinary arts to transform the lives of young people in our community, and the chair of the Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF), I see the power of this industry to change lives every day.

At CHEF, we’re dedicated to raising up and inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Through programs like ProStart and Restaurant Ready, we provide pathways for high school students and individuals facing barriers to employment. These programs help people find not only a career but also a sense of purpose and belonging in this dynamic field.

Hospitality is a place where you can build a future and make a difference. Whether it’s a young person discovering their passion in a classroom kitchen or someone forging a new path through our training programs, this industry opens doors to opportunity and connection.

None of this would be possible without your support. On behalf of CHEF and the CRA, thank you for helping make this work possible.Congratulations to all the nominees and finalists tonight. You are the heart of Connecticut’s hospitality industry, and we are proud to celebrate you.

Ben Dubow Executive Director Forge City Works

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

13

Congratulations to all the nominees!

HO

D TO E R O N

B

MIN E NO

AT E D

Delicious food prepared from seasonal, fresh ingredients. Well-crafted cocktails & 20 beers on tap.

135A Storrs Rd, Mansfield, CT | 860.786.7870

fentonrivergrill.com

Creating Unique Dining Experiences in Northeastern Connecticut G R E E N VALLEY HOSPIT ALITY

greenvalleyhospitality.com

2024 CRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN Keith Beaulieu The Main Pub

VICE CHAIRMAN Bill Taibe For the Food Restaurant Group

SECRETARY Jonathan Jennings CT Wedding Group

TREASURER Phil Barnett Hartford Restaurant Group

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN Dan Meiser 85th Day Food Community

LEGISLATIVE CHAIRMAN Tim Adams J. Timothy’s Taverne

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Steven Abrams Max Hospitality A.J. Aurrichio Tanda Hospitality Suzanne Cannon (Honorary) Formerly Eli Cannons Tap Room Christina FitzGerald Fusion Restaurant Group Olivia Formica Cappy Hospitality Jason Guyot Foxwoods Resort Casino Bryce Hardy The Charles | Bake Market Michael Marchetti Marchetti Management Scott Miller DORO Restaurant Group

Emily Mingrone Tavern on State | Fair Haven Oyster Co. | The Pearl | Provisions on State Ryan O’Donnell Pullman & Comley Brian Phelps Toad’s Place Doug Polistena The Amber Room Colonnade Matt Storch Match | Match Burger Lobster Don Stevens CohnReznick Anthony Sullo Joey Garlic’s Stephen Tagliatela Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | Fresh Salt Helmar Wolf Mill Restaurant Group

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

15

Proud to Partner

with the Connecticut Restaurant Association With over 125 years of foodservice experience, we work with foodservice operations to help them achieve their goals and make dreams a reality.

Connect with us at gfs.com

A Proven Solution for Gaskets & Cutting Boards Services:

• Refrigeration Gaskets • New Cutting Boards • Hot-Side Gaskets • Door Sweeps • Door Closures • Strip Curtains • Hinge Repairs

Call Us For A Free Inspection Of Your Kitchen Gaskets: 1-800-231-6814 www.thesealsusa.com | info@thesealsusa.com

2024 CHEF BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN Ben Dubow Forge City Works

VICE CHAIRMAN Dan Meiser 85th Day Food Community

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Tyler Anderson Tanda Hospitality

Scott Miller DORO Restaurant Group

Phil Barnett Hartford Restaurant Group

Dave Rutigliano SBC Restaurant & Brewery

Christopher Gentile Gateway Community College

Roshara Sanders Culinary Institute of America

Jan Jones University of New Haven

Anthony Sullo Joey Garlic’s

DATAPAY PAYROLL PROUDLY SUPPORT THE CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S AWARD WINNERS! All of us at Datapay Payroll would like to wish all Connecticut restaurants a terrific holiday season and a prosperous New Year! Thank you for the opportunity to serve as the endorsed payroll provider for the CRA.

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR CRA MEMBERS: NO CHARGE FOR W2s NO CHARGE FOR QUATERLYs TYPICALLY 30-40% COST SAVINGS

Contact David Kaletski: 860 751 9057

Serving CT restaurants for the past 30 years

N O MIN ATED FO R

OVERALL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR (CT) RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR (HARTFORD COUNTY)

991 Farmington Ave. West Hartford, CT 06107 860.955.0300

ZO H ARACT. C O M

2024 SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSORS

DINNER SPONSOR

RECEPTION SPONSOR

KICKOFF SPONSOR

PHOTOBOOTH SPONSOR

REGISTRATION SPONSORS

LOUNGE SPONSORS

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

19

Designed by: Arkay-Leliever LLC

Great things happen with the right team!

AND

Let’s raise a pint to this year’s nominees and to everyone who makes this industry a success!

9 3 E L M S T. • N E W C A N A A N

FA R E BY L U K E V E N N E R C I N E M A L A B .COM

2024 SPONSORS ALLIED SPONSORS

AWARD SPONSOR

VOTING SPONSORS

MEDIA PARTNERS

VENDOR SPONSORS

Fruitful Mixology Owl’s Brew

Quiver Spirits Veritable Distillery

DIAMOND SPONSORS 85th Day Food Community 110 Grill | Piantedosi Baking Company Brown-Forman CBIA Chef Prasad | Gourmet Unite CLA ClarkHirth CohnReznick LLP Craveable Hospitality CT DECD CT State Community College Foundation Dockside Brewery DORO Restaurant Group Falvey Linen & Uniform Supply Fire by Forge Flanders Fish Market | 374 Market & Cocktails Flavor Smart Beverage Group Green Valley Hospitality Hartford Distributors Intersect Public Solutions J. Timothy’s Taverne Katalyst Martignetti Companies

JMG Insurance Corp Le Mazet Liberty Bank Market Hospitality Group Mill Restaurant Group Molson Coors NAI Lexington Commerical Pernod Ricard Powers, Griffin & Hill Sardilli Produce & Dairy Saybrook Point Resort & Marina SpotOn Sprague Taco Guy The Amber Room Colonnade The Brushmill by the Waterfall The Charles The Main Pub The Shipwright’s Daughter Wood N Tap

SUPPORTING SPONSORS MyCTSavings The Playhouse

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

Tile America

21

“Spread some joy. Spread some love.”

If you would like to request support for an upcoming program or event for a 501(c)(3) organization, please fi ll out a donation request form at titosvodka.com/donation to get started.

Work thrIVES.

Helping you thrive in your business.

Savings Bank of Danbury is now Ives Bank.

Since 1849, we’ve been dedicated to helping you manage daily operations, expanding your reach, and streamlining your finances. We’re still the same bank you know and trust helping you thrive right here in your community.

For 175 years, Ives Bank.

IvesBank.com 844.723.2265 NMLS #763547 Member FDIC

EVERY GREAT DISH TELLS A STORY. Your Brand Should Too. Just like the perfect dish, your marketing deserves the right mix of creativity, strategy, and flavor. At Andrew Associates, we specialize in crafting campaigns that make your restaurant stand out in a crowded market.

From creative strategy and design to printing, data, and mailing services, Andrew Associates is the secret ingredient for turning your vision into a bold, unforgettable brand. andrewdm.com

CREATIVE. PRINT. MAIL.

2024 CRAZIES PROGRAM MASTER OF CEREMONIES - Larry Cafero WELCOME - Scott Dolch, CRA President & CEO LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD - Edward “Bud” F. O’Donnell, Jr., Esq.

FIRST COURSE FRIEND OF THE INDUSTRY - Representative Kerry Wood CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY HALL OF FAME - Red Rock Tavern presented by GoNation

VENDOR OF THE YEAR CATERER OF THE YEAR

presented by Powerstation Events

BARTENDER OF THE YEAR

presented by Connecticut Distributors, Inc

SERVER OF THE YEAR

presented by Allan S. Goodman, Eder Bros, Slocum & Sons

PASTRY CHEF OF THE YEAR

SECOND COURSE COUNTY RESTAURANTS OF THE YEAR Litchfield | Fairfield | Hartford | New Haven presented by Sysco

CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY HALL OF FAME - Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough presented by GoNation

CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION RECOGNITION COUNTY RESTAURANTS OF THE YEAR Tolland | Middlesex | Windham | New London presented by Sysco

THIRD COURSE PEOPLE’S CHOICE

presented by Foxwoods

RESTAURANT NEWCOMER presented by Opici

RESTAURATEURS OF THE YEAR - Eli Hawli & Sam DeVellis | Market Hospitality Group presented by US Foods

CHEF OF THE YEAR

presented by Performance Foodservice

CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR presented by Sysco

CLOSING & AFTER PARTY - Shrine Nightclub

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

25

Pullman & Comley is Proud to Support the Connecticut Restaurant Association Our attorneys are trusted sources of guidance and advocacy for the hospitality industry and have a deep understanding of the issues restaurants face on a daily basis. pullcom.com BRIDGEPORT 203.330.2000

HARTFORD 860.424.4300

SPRINGFIELD 413.314.6160

WAKEFIELD

WESTPORT

401.360.1533

203.254.5000

WHITE PLAINS 914.705.5355

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD EDWARD “BUD” F. O’DONNELL, JR., ESQ. Siegel, O’Connor, O’Donnell & Beck, P.C.

The Connecticut Restaurant Association is honored to present its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Bud O’Donnell, whose unwavering commitment, legal expertise, and deep dedication to the hospitality industry have shaped the Connecticut restaurant landscape for more than 30 years.

A Waterbury native and one of seven Irish Catholic siblings, Bud’s legal journey began at Ogletree Deakins in Greenville, South Carolina, where he worked alongside labor law legends Frank Ogletree and Lewis T. Smoak. His early work in the field, handling union strikes and National Labor Relations Board cases, laid the foundation for a remarkable career that would come to benefit countless restaurant owners and operators.

After relocating to Connecticut with his wife Jayne, Bud joined Siegel, O’Connor, Schiff & Zangari, P.C., where he quickly became a trusted advisor to early members of the restaurant community, including Tim Adams, Carmen Anthony, Phil Barnett, Rich Rosenthal, and the team at Civic Café. Through these relationships, Bud played a pivotal role in the formation and development of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, ensuring that the voices of restaurant owners were heard and supported.

As the firm evolved into Siegel, O’Connor, O’Donnell & Beck, P.C., Bud took on the role of managing partner, all the while continuing to serve as an indispensable resource to the Connecticut restaurant community. Bud’s unparalleled commitment to his clients is legendary; he was always available, day or night, offering insightful, practical, and innovative legal advice when it was needed most. His dedication to the industry never waivered, and his tireless work ethic made him a trusted confidant to both the CRA Board and its members.

As Bud now enters a well-deserved retirement, we know he’s looking forward to spending time with his four grandchildren and traveling with Jayne. While we celebrate his remarkable career, we also want to take this moment to express our deepest gratitude for the countless ways he has shaped and supported the Connecticut restaurant industry.

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

27

The MyCTSavings retirement program is free for your business and allows your full and part-time employees to save for retirement through payroll.

When you enroll, your employees can start saving to build a more secure financial future. Businesses with 5+ employees that do not offer a retirement plan are required by law to enroll in MyCTSavings or offer another qualified retirement savings plan.

FRIEND OF THE INDUSTRY REPRESENTATIVE KERRY WOOD

State Representative of the 29th House District As State Representative for Connecticut’s 29th House District, which includes Rocky Hill and part of Wethersfield, Kerry Wood has established herself as a staunch advocate for small businesses and local economic growth.

With a background in commercial leasing and sales at New England Retail Properties, Rep. Wood brings practical, hands-on experience to her work in the state legislature, making her a powerful ally for restaurateurs and small business owners across Connecticut.

Throughout her tenure, Rep. Wood has focused on creating a more business-friendly environment by championing initiatives designed to support small businesses, including streamlining loan access and reducing bureaucratic red tape. She has worked tirelessly to address the rising cost of health insurance, a burden for many small business owners and their employees, while advocating for policies that allow local businesses to thrive.

Rep. Wood is also one of the chairs of the Moderate Democratic Caucus (“Connecticut Blue Dogs”), which is a coalition of 26 Connecticut House Democrats who advocate within the House Democratic Caucus for fiscal responsibility, transparency, and good governance while making common-sense policy for all State of Connecticut residents. The caucus has shown to be a strong ally for the hospitality community in Connecticut.

Beyond her work with small businesses, Rep. Wood is deeply committed to the environment, education, and veterans’ services, making her a well-rounded advocate for her community. She has long been a proponent of sustainable farming, renewable energy, and preserving open space, and she has made significant strides in securing funding for local public schools and veterans’ housing.

Her dedication to improving the quality of life for all Connecticut residents, especially small business owners, has earned her the respect and admiration of her constituents and colleagues alike. Kerry Wood’s leadership and commitment to protecting and strengthening the small business sector make her a deserving recipient of the CRAZIES Friend of the Industry Award.

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

29

CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY HALL OF FAME presented by GoNation

RED ROCK TAVERN Hartford

Red Rock Tavern, formerly Kenney’s Restaurant, has been a family-run fixture in the Frog Hollow neighborhood and greater Hartford for 90 years.

In 1890, Red Rock’s address 369 Capitol Avenue was born, not as a restaurant, but as Hartford Grocery Company. Hartford Grocery Co remained a bustling grocer through the early 1900’s.

A tale almost as old as Red Rock — during prohibition, a disguised speakeasy operated in its basement, with the grocery store resuming upstairs. Red Rock team members Don and Uncle Nick love to tell the tales from this time!

In 1933, Irish immigrants, the Kenney’s, Kenney’s Restaurant before becoming Red Rock Tavern opened Kenney’s Restaurant, and the family establishment now known as Red Rock has been open ever since. In the 1970’s, Kenney’s Restaurant was purchased by current owners, and has been passed down the family for four generations!

Throughout the 1980’s and 90’s, Kenney’s Restaurant was a gathering place for all.

Whether you were a nearby resident, worked at the Hartford Courant or Aetna, Kenney’s Restaurant was your home away from home.

In 2005, Rock Rock Tavern re-branded from Kenney’s Restaurant to the new familiar name.

Why Red Rock? Located on the brick exterior of its building, sits a historicity preserved soda advertisement from the 1940’s — “Enjoy Red Rock Cola”. As a nod to this history that resides here, Red Rock Tavern was born.

Chelsey Mancini: Fourth generation Red Rock

As Hartford’s Oldest Bar & Restaurant, and family owned since 1933, Red Rock’s walls are filled with memories and stories from over the last century, and is a true Hartford favorite.

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

31

Built for Connecticut restaurants Serving the Connecticut community with quick to setup, and even easier to use systems. Toast's restaurant-first platform is built with you in mind.

VISIT POS.TOASTTAB.COM TO LEARN MORE

Congratulations

2024 “CRAZIES” Honorees, Winners & Nominees Connecticut Restaurant Association members, we celebrate you!

Get connected to the local market resource to search, shop and order from the state’s beer, wine and spirits wholesalers.

HOW BEER, WINE & SPIRITS GET TO THE MARKETPLACE

START YOUR ACCESS TODAY. www.thebeveragejournal.com/ct-comp-trade-offer/ Or call: 203.288.3375 ext.1001

CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY HALL OF FAME presented by GoNation

ABBOTT’S LOBSTER IN THE ROUGH Noank

Abbott’s Lobster was founded in the 1947 by Ernie Abbott, who bought an old chowder and bisque cannery on Noank harbor and converted it into a lobster shack. Jerry and Ruth Mears took over in 1981, and the seafood lovers destination has been passed on through the generations ever since.

Abbott’s is most famous for its Connecticutstyle hot lobster rolls, featuring quarter-pound servings of buttery lobster meat piled high on a toasted hamburger bun. The restaurant offers a wide variety of lobster sizes, from the classic 1 1/4-pounders to occasional show-stopping giants weighing in at 16 pounds or more. From the beginning, Abbott’s has used a method of low-steaming their lobsters in drawer-sized cast-iron vaults that were built in the 1960s.

Beyond the lobster rolls, guests savor dishes like steamed mussels, clam chowder (served in both a broth-based “Noank” style and the classic creamy New England variety), and raw oysters—all enjoyed at picnic tables overlooking the water. The BYOB policy allows guests to add their own personal touch to the experience, creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Over the years, Abbott’s has built a national reputation, featured in publications like Gourmet magazine, USA Today, and the New York Times, and visited by celebrities and U.S. presidents, including a memorable visit from Jimmy Carter. The Mears family’s commitment to quality and hospitality has turned Abbott’s into more than just a restaurant—it has become a cherished part of people’s lives. Families return year after year, creating traditions and making memories, while new visitors from across the globe visit to experience its legendary lobster rolls.

The Mears family continues to carry on the legacy, with the next generation, Chelsea, stepping into a leadership role.

Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough is not just a place to eat—it’s a Connecticut destination where food, family, and tradition come together to create an experience that generations of guests continue to treasure.

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

33

DoorDash is proud to support the Connecticut Restaurant Association and our Connecticut restaurant partners.

Through Entrepreneurship & Access programs, DoorDash provides businesses with the funding and training necessary to help their businesses thrive long-term.

To learn more about our programs & impact visit www.doordashimpact.com

RESTAURATEURS OF THE YEAR presented by US Foods

ELI HAWLI & SAM DEVELLIS Market Hospitality Group

“The self-taught chef of first-generation Italian immigrants, I have dedicated my life’s work to my three passions: food, people, and hospitality. Receiving the CRAZIES distinguished “Restaurateur of the Year” award is an incredible honor—and one that demonstrates the entire Market Hospitality Group team’s dedication and hard work. As you all know, this is a tough industry—and a very competitive industry— and to be recognized by your peers for your accomplishments is truly special.

“For Market Hospitality Group, this recognition reinforces our team’s fearless commitment to excellence in both guest service, and cuisine. This award and the recognition and appreciation it demonstrates is an inspiration to the entire MHG team to continue creating unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

-Sam DeVellis “I immigrated from Lebanon to Connecticut 20 years ago and only in America could this have happened. Now that Market Hospitality Group owns and operates 6 concepts in 16 locations, in 3 states; it’s the definition of the American dream.

“I am very honored and humbled to receive this incredible award from the Connecticut Restaurant Association, an exceptional organization that represents the restaurant industry in this wonderful state.”

- Eli Hawli

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

35

THANK YOU For Making This Possible XOXO,

2024 CRAZIES FINALISTS VENDOR OF THE YEAR Copps Island Oysters | Norwalk Falvey Linen Supply | East Hartford & Milford Sardilli Produce & Dairy Co | Hartford Soda Service & Alpine Refrigeration | Newington

CATERER OF THE YEAR

presented by Powerstation Events AMG Catering & Events | Wilton Ani’s Table & Marketplace | Rocky Hill Chef Prasad | New Canaan Herbaceous Catering Co. | Milford The Bee’s Knees Catering | Avon

BARTENDER OF THE YEAR

presented by Connecticut Distributors, Inc Jose Colon | Elm City Social, New Haven Adrian Hurtado | Taco Guy, Norwalk Suzie Johnson | Fire by Forge, Hartford Shane McGowan | Wildcat, Hamden Olivia Olsen | ATC South Street, Litchfield

SERVER OF THE YEAR

presented by Allan S. Goodman, Eder Bros, Slocum & Sons Mariana Escalera | Puerto Vallarta, Danbury Christopher Hodson | Materia Ristorante, Bantam Page McGuigan | Camille’s Wood Fired Pizza, Tolland Jeremy St. Louis | S&P Oyster, Mystic Webster Templeton | Saltbrick Prime, Branford

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

37

Purveyors of the world’s greatest ingredients since 1985. @wherechefsshop chefswarehouse.com

2024 CRAZIES FINALISTS PASTRY CHEF OF THE YEAR Nick Goodman | Gioia, New Haven Melissa Knauer | The Benjamin, Ridgefield Emily Litke | The Beamhouse, Glastonbury Michelle Nicholson | The Flour Girl Café, Hebron Jessica Spivey | Oyster Club, Mystic

PEOPLE’S CHOICE presented by Foxwoods

Dog Watch Café | Stonington Grigg Street Pizza | Greenwich Pho 501 | East Hartford Sandra’s Next Generation | New Haven UCONN Dairy Bar | Storrs

RESTAURANT NEWCOMER presented by Opici Athithi | Wilton Café Melba | Milford Gioia | New Haven Le Mazet | West Hartford Rebellion Kitchen & Bar | Danbury

CHEF OF THE YEAR

presented by Performance Foodservice Vincent Chirico | The Luke Brasserie, New Haven Michelle Greenfield | Allium Eatery, Westport Gen Hashimoto | Hachiroku, New Haven Damon Sawyer | 29 Markle Ct, Bridgeport David Standridge | The Shipwright’s Daughter, Mystic

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

39

NUMBERS. PEOPLE.

It takes balance.™

860-561-4000 West Hartford CLAconnect.com ©2024 CliftonLarsonAllen LLP. CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) is an independent network member of CLA Global. See CLAglobal.com/disclaimer. Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.

2024 CRAZIES FINALISTS RESTAURANTS OF THE YEAR presented by Sysco

LITCHFIELD COUNTY

FAIRFIELD COUNTY

Materia Ristorante | Bantam

Bar Rosina’s | Greenwich

Momma’s Tacos | New Milford

Elm | New Canaan

Ore Hill | Kent

Esh | Fairfield

RSVP | West Cornwall

The Cottage | Westport

HARTFORD COUNTY

NEW HAVEN COUNTY

Restaurant Bricco | West Hartford

Bar Boucheé | Madison

Tiger Belly Noodle Bar | Granby

BLDG | New Haven

Union Kitchen | West Hartford

Fair Haven Oyster Co. | New Haven

Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen | West Hartford

Hachiroku Shokudo & Sake Bar | New Haven

TOLLAND COUNTY

MIDDLESEX COUNTY

Fenton River Grill | Mansfield

Brushmill by the Waterfall | Chester

JRego’s Gathering Place | Ellington

Café Routier | Westbrook

Monet’s Table Restaurant | Tolland

Grano Arso | Chester

Stix ‘n’ Stones Marketplace | Mansfield

The Essex | Old Saybrook

WINDHAM COUNTY

NEW LONDON COUNTY

A Mano Taco Shop | Willimantic

Fat Tuna | Waterford

Elizabeth’s Farmhouse | Putnam

The Port of Call | Mystic

Stone Row Kitchen + Bar | Willimantic

The Tin Peddler | North Stonington

Trigo Wood Fired Pizza | Willimantic

Whitecrest Eatery | Stonington

OVERALL RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Each County Restaurant of the Year Winner will become a Finalist for the Overall Restaurant of the Year

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

41

CONNECTICUT HOSPITALITY EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

The Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) is the non-profit 501 (c) 3, philanthropic arm of the Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA).

Its mission is to promote the health and prosperity of Connecticut’s hospitality industry through education, scholarships and financial assistance. CHEF works to attract, develop and retain a career-oriented professional workforce for the restaurant industry.

EDUCATION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE RESTAURANT INDUSTRY CHEF’s cornerstone program, ProStart, is a two-year, nationwide program that develops the best and brightest talent into tomorrow’s restaurant and foodservice leaders. ProStart serves more than 3,000 Connecticut high school students each year through a curriculum designed by the National Restaurant Association, and culminates with the Connecticut ProStart Invitational. Winning teams compete at the National ProStart Invitational, with students from all 50 states, Guam and Washington, DC.

RESTAURANT READY: WORK READINESS CHEF has partnered with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) to bring the Restaurant Ready program to Connecticut.

Restaurant Ready is a national program dedicated to helping people acquire the basic work and life skills necessary to pursue jobs in the hospitality industry and jumpstart a pathway to independence. ​ ​Additionally, we work to create apprenticeships, offer professional development opportunities for our members and promote the restaurant industry as a viable career path.

2024 CRAZIES AWARDS

43

HELPING YOUR BUSINESS THRIVE WHILE PROTECTING YOUR BOTTOM LINE

Ecolab is a proud sponsor of the Connecticut Restaurant Association Awards.

Cheers to the nominees and honorees!

HOSPITALITY ⋅ CATERING ⋅ EVENTS We passionately believe in delivering exceptional experiences to our guests by using the highest quality seasonal ingredients and providing service that is both warm and genuine.

Join us for an experience like no other!

WWW.DORORG.COM

CONGRATULATIONS to all of tonight's nominees, honorees, & winners! from

www.jmg.com CURRENT11-11-2024 4:49 PM

Bring the one you love to the place you love.

Reserve:

860 526 9898 Chester, CT

Natural Gas | Electricity

A Smart Alternative to Traditional Utility Energy Supply Take Advantage of Your CRA Membership Benefits Today

Budget Certainty & Pricing Flexibility

Local Energy Expertise & Insight

Account Monitoring & Management

Call Today for Your Customized Energy Plan! jswan@spragueenergy.com | 203.260.9791 | spragueenergy.com/cra

Accept payments.

Run your business.

Sell more.

Congratulations to all the Nominees!

Congratulations to all the 2024 nominees!

1 Stacey Road | Danbury CT | 06811 | 203-748-3800 | www.theamberroom.net Scan Here for a Glimpse!

Flavor Smart Beverage Group, Connecticut’s leading dispensed beverage supplier, welcomes Italy’s number one bottled water, Ferrarelle, to our growing family of quality brands.

Restaurant Dreams?

We’ll Help Navigate the Space.

Contact: KEVIN KENNY I 860 452 6707 I kfk@nai-lexcom.com

NAI-LexCom.com

For nearly 200 years, Liberty Bank has helped to improve the lives of our customers, teammates and the communities we serve.

We are proud to support the Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) and their commitment to offering benefits and resources to any size restaurant in our community.

We are delighted to sponsor the 2024 CRAzies!

Member FDIC

Led By James Beard Award-Winning Chef, David Standridge

Breakfast -brunch - happy hour - dinner 20 e. main street - mystic, ct | www.shipwrightsdaugther.com

Expand Your Horizons With CT State Culinary Arts In the booming restaurant and food service industries, CT State Gateway culinary arts associate degree and certificate programs can give you a leg up as you begin your career.

Students gain true industry experience managing the college's program-based restaurant, Café Vincenzo. Beyond cooking and knife selection, chef educators provide students with guidance in running restaurants, getting started working on a food truck, and opening a catering business.

LEARN MORE

ctstate.edu

FLEXIBLE OFFERINGS

LOW-COST TUITION

SUCCESS FOCUSED

Southington | Canton | Manchester Find Your Nearest Location At 110grill.com

Enjoy your night in the spotlight Congrats to all the nominees and winners, especially SpotOn client Rebellion Kitchen & Bar. This Connecticut newcomer shows what hard work and exceptional dining can achieve.

Keep every shift efficient with customized restaurant tech.

No catches. No bogus fees. No BS. Talk to an expert: SpotOn.com.

Vintage Feel, Modern Taste.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2024 CRAZIES AWARD WINNERS!

LU N CH • DINNE R • HAP P Y HOUR • P RIVATE EVEN T S • CAT ER I N G 161 Main Street, Wethersfield, CT • 860.785.8499 • TheCharlesCT.com

Congratulations to all the C ZIES AWARD WINNER S!

Best wishes with your continued success!

THE

freshest

HOLIDAY GIFT

PT SECRET

NIANTIC’S BEST KE

WE SHIP ANY SIZE LOBSTER ANYWHERE! SOUPS + SEAFOOD TOO! SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY

O V E R N I G H T D E L I V E R Y N A T I O N W I D E FLANDERSFISH.COM

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE NOMINEES! We are truly honored to be recognized by such talented individuals in the industry. Thank you for all your support over the last 50 years in business!

212 Locust Street, Hartford, CT 06114 • 860.525.3237 • sardilliproduce.com

CELEBRATE IN STYLE

Congratulations to the CRA and to all honorees, finalists, and winners at this year’s CRAZIES!

Tell your story where it matters most. www.intersectps.com

MillRestaurantGroup.com

Mill Restaurant Group

ABIGAIL’S GRILLE & WINE BAR

REPUBLIC GASTROPUB

THE MILL ON THE RIVER

CAL’S WOOD FIRED GRILL & BAR

MARKET GRILLE

Congratulations to the 2024 CRAZIES Finalists & Honorees!

Nicole R. Griffin Kevin A. Hill Charles J. Kowaleski www.lobbyct.com P.O. Box 1239, Middlebury, CT 06762

Specializing in Restaurant Accounting & Taxation Tax Planning & Preparation Financial Statement Preparation Business Structure Risk Management Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting

Congratulations 2024 “CRAZIES” HONOREES, WINNERS AND NOMINEES

Proud Sponsor of the Connecticut Restaurant Association and we paid for this ad to show the love-n-support

SMOOOooooTH SMOOOooooTH B:36.25 in T:36 in

S:35 in

XL

XL CENTER