Local restaurants, restaurant owners receive NYS Restaurant Association awards
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The New York State Restaurant Association (NYSRA) hosted its annual Restaurant Industry Spotlight on Excellence (RISE) Awards at the Albany Capital Center on Tuesday. A couple of Capital Region restaurants and restaurateurs were among this year's award recipients.
NYSRA first kicked off the RISE Awards in 2022. The ceremony aims to recognize the talent and dedication of restaurant owners and staff across New York State.
"We are proud to host the RISE Awards each year because it provides an opportunity to recognize the hard work and passion of those in the restaurant industry,” said Melissa Fleischut, NYSRA president and CEO. “Restaurants are a cornerstone of our hospitality sector, offering not just meals but memorable experiences through exceptional food, service, and atmosphere. Each year, we’re amazed by the incredible submissions."
The showcase features eight award categories and all restaurants and staff across the state are eligible to be nominated. This year, two restaurants and two restaurant owners from the local area received RISE awards:
- Best Restaurant: Eastern Region — Sweet Mimi's Café & Bakery, Saratoga Springs
- Best Front of House Team: Upstate — Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room, Big Indian
- Hospitality Career Achievement — Chef Yono and Donna Purnomo, Yono's, Albany