The New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association (NJRHA) has named Chef Allen Walski of Clemmy’s in Waretown its 2026 Chef of the Year, recognizing his culinary craftsmanship, creativity, and contributions to the state’s vibrant dining industry.
Walski earned the top honor following a competitive statewide public vote that collected more than 5,000 total ballots across eight finalists representing standout restaurants from Ocean County to Bergen County. He was officially recognized during the NJRHA’s 41st Annual Awards Ceremony on Thursday, November 5, held at John Henry’s Stone Terrace in Hamilton, Mercer County.
Public Recognition and Statewide Distinction
The Chef of the Year award celebrates leaders in New Jersey’s culinary community who exhibit outstanding kitchen talent, operational leadership, and dedication to hospitality.
“New Jersey is home to an extraordinary culinary community, and Chef Walski represents the talent, dedication, and passion that make our restaurant industry so special. Being selected by the public makes this recognition particularly meaningful. It speaks to the connections chefs build with their guests and communities, and the lasting impression they make through their food and hospitality,” Daniel Klim, President & CEO, New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association, said.
Walski emerged at the top of a prestigious field of fellow Garden State nominees:
- Cliff Crooks — Viv & Jules (Hoboken)
- Aishling Stevens — The Grand Tavern (Neptune)
- Dennis Foy — de floret (Lambertville)
- Joseph Sergentakis — Revell Hall (Burlington)
- Nick DeRosa — Black Sheep (Garwood)
- Conor Browne — Lula (Ridgewood)
- Sam Stymest — Sam’s Table (Montclair)
41st Annual NJRHA Industry Honorees
The Chef of the Year title was presented alongside several major industry accolades at the annual gala, which brings together restaurant owners, hotel executives, public officials, and hospitality vendors from across New Jersey.
Other 2026 award recipients honored in Mercer County include:
- Restaurateur of the Year: The Bonfiglio Family, Triple T Hospitality Group
- Deborah Dowdell Lifetime Achievement Award: Jeanne Cretella, byLandmark
- Hotelier of the Year: Robby Younes, Crystal Springs Resort
- Friend of the Industry: State Senator Vin Gopal
- Hospitality Award: Steve Sanders, Sea Breeze Syrups
- Attraction of the Year: Adventure Aquarium (Camden)
- Community Impact Award: Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK)
- ProStart Teacher of the Year: Rory Philipson, Mercer County Technical Schools
Based in Waretown along Ocean County’s Route 9 corridor, Clemmy’s has built a dedicated local following for its neighborhood-focused dining experience, now backed by statewide acclaim from the NJRHA.
