2025 RAMMY Honors Celebrate the Icons Behind DC’s Dining Culture
Washington’s restaurant scene is no stranger to stars, but earlier this month at The Schuyler at the Hamilton Hotel, the spotlight turned inward.
At the second annual RAMMY Honors, the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) paid tribute to a trio of trailblazing women and a slate of longstanding local institutions whose contributions have helped shape the capital’s culinary and cultural landscape for decades.
Topping the night’s recognitions was the Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award, presented to Ruth Gresser, the chef and owner of Pizzeria Paradiso. A pioneer of the region’s artisanal pizza movement, Gresser’s influence has stretched well beyond the pizza oven. For over 30 years, she’s served up more than just good food — advocating for a more inclusive and environmentally conscious industry.
Virginia Ali, the indomitable matriarch of Ben’s Chili Bowl, was honored with the John G. Laytham Executive Leadership and Impact Award. For more than 65 years, she’s turned a family-run eatery into a cultural and civil rights landmark. Through The Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation, Ali helped provide over 5,000 free meals to first responders during the pandemic and continues to support youth and community initiatives throughout the District.
Also recognized was Linda Roth, founder and CEO of Linda Roth Associates, Inc., with an Honorary RAMMY Award for her behind-the-scenes brilliance. A strategic communications master, Roth has elevated the public profiles of countless Washington restaurants, helping them navigate a fast-changing media landscape.
“We are proud to recognize leaders like Ruth Gresser, Virginia Ali, and Linda Roth, who embody what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and a commitment to uplifting their communities,” said Shawn Townsend, President and CEO of RAMW. “They aren’t just leaders, they’re legends. Their impact reaches beyond the plate — they’ve changed the way our region eats, gathers, and thrives.”
The evening also paid homage to restaurants celebrating milestone anniversaries across the region. In DC, Bistrot du Coin, Chef Geoff’s, and Bobby Van’s Steakhouse were each recognized for 25 years of service. Caribbean Superior was Maryland’s honoree, while Virginia spotlighted two beloved institutions: Heidelberg Bakery and Celebrity Delly, each celebrating 50 years of tradition and taste.
The celebration continues later this summer with the 43rd Annual RAMMYS Awards & Gala, slated for Sunday, August 3 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, where the broader industry will gather once more to honor excellence across the region’s dynamic food and hospitality scene.
