The New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association (NJRHA) has announced the 40th NJRHA Awards on Nov. 5, an event dedicated to celebrating the most influential figures and innovators in the state’s vibrant restaurant and hospitality sector.
The awards ceremony will take place at the Ryland Inn in White House Station, bringing together industry professionals for an evening of recognition and celebration. The prestigious event will honor a select group of leaders who have demonstrated excellence and a deep commitment to their communities.
This year’s honorees include:
- Restaurateur of the Year: The Kunisch Family, of Mahwah Bar & Grill and Allendale Bar & Grill.
- Hotelier of the Year: ICONA Resorts.
- Deborah Dowdell Lifetime Achievement Award: Mike Perro of PJ Whelihans.
- Hospitality Award: Marilou Halverson of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.
- Friend of the Industry: Dale Florio of Princeton Public Affairs Group.
- Community Impact Award: Chef Jesse Jones, a private chef, author, and mentor.
A new and exciting element to this year’s awards is the public voting for the Executive Chef of the Year. This initiative allows the community to directly participate in recognizing the culinary talent that has inspired them. Voting will be open from Oct. 1 to Oct. 14, and the public can cast their vote on the NJRHA website.
Daniel Klim, president & CEO of NJRHA, praised the honorees, stating, “Our honorees set the standard for excellence in hospitality. Their leadership and vision not only ensure that New Jersey’s restaurants and hotels continue to thrive…but also reflect a deep commitment to giving back to the communities and industry they passionately serve.”
Tickets for the event are available for $125 per person, with sponsorship opportunities also open. For more information, the public is encouraged to visit the NJRHA website.
