Rhode Island residents have until Nov. 30 to vote for their favorite chefs, restaurants and hospitality professionals in the 2025 ANCHORS awards, RI Hospitality announced Tuesday.
The ANCHORS — Awards for Noteworthy Champions of Hospitality and Outstanding Restaurant Service — recognize excellence across Rhode Island’s food, beverage and tourism industries. Public voting is open at www.surveymonkey.com/r/L7H9GMB.
“This year’s finalists represent the heart and soul of Rhode Island’s hospitality industry,” said Farouk Rajab, president and CEO of RI Hospitality. “From chefs and front-line employees to educators and community leaders, their passion and hard work keep our state a welcoming destination for all.”
Finalists include established restaurants like Hemenway’s, Ten Prime Steak & Sushi, Georges of Galilee and Flora at The Gardiner House in the Restaurant of the Year category.
Chef of the Year nominees are Cara Marie Mourning of Blu Violet Rooftop, Joseph Caldarone of Iron Works, Justin Cumeal of Nana’s Westerly, Alp Gumuscu of Tolia and Nikhil Naiker of Nimki PVD.
The Emerging Leader of the Year category recognizes rising talent, with finalists including Christina Bullock of Chomp Kitchen & Drinks, Paulette Carr of the Preservation Society of Newport County and Chris Cerio of Graduate by Hilton.
Other categories include Hospitality Champion of the Year and the People’s Choice Award, which features Track 15, El Paso Restaurant, Brasa Y Chifa, Pasquale’s Pizzeria, India and The Nordic.
Winners will be announced at a red-carpet ceremony Jan. 14, 2026, at the Rhode Island Convention Center.
RI Hospitality has represented the state’s hospitality industry since 1963 and has more than 900 members. For more information, contact victoria@rihospitality.org or visit www.rihospitality.org.
