Hot Dish! Inside the 2025 RAMMY Awards

DC’s culinary cool and creative gathered for the 43rd Annual RAMMYS Awards & Gala at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Hosted by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), this highly anticipated event highlighted the outstanding achievements in the region’s restaurant industry — and spoke to their struggles with current policy.

Restaurateurs, chefs, and industry professionals turned out in full force for an evening of celebration, recognizing the hard work, passion, and dedication that make the DC dining scene one of the most dynamic in the country. The evening also marked a major milestone for several beloved local establishments that have reached significant anniversaries. And there was some newsy dish!

“No other industry has been tested more than ours since the pandemic,” RAMW President and CEO Shawn Townsend said. “Closures, staffing shortages, rising costs, and yes — y’all know what I’m getting ready to say — Initiative 82. It’s been one challenge after another. But this week reminded me that when we speak up and fight for the industry, people listen.”

The DC Council recently voted to partially repeal the initiative, which sought to phase out the tipped wage, and instead implement a compromise that will cap tipped wages at 75% of the full minimum wage starting in 2034. The tipped wage will remain at $10 per hour until next summer, when it will begin to increase gradually.

Townsend also shared that the council had just approved sidewalk delivery robots, nicknamed Daryan, in DC.

“[The Council] just gave the green light for Daryan and his crew to hit our streets,” Townsend said. “Expect to see them rolling around DC before the end of this year, delivering from your favorite restaurants.”

And speaking of favorite restaurants…

The Big Winners of the Night

The 2025 RAMMYS celebrated a diverse group of winners, showcasing both new talent and established stars. Here are some of the most notable recipients:

• Chef of the Year: Carlos Delgado of Causa/Amazonia – Delgado’s innovative approach to Latin American cuisine has earned him high praise, and this award further solidifies his place among the city’s finest culinary talents.
• Restaurateur of the Year: Seng Luangrath of Baan Mae, Padaek, and Thip Khao – Known for her vision and leadership in bringing Laotian cuisine to the forefront of DC’s restaurant scene, Luangrath has had a transformative impact on local dining.
• Best Bar of the Year: Tune Inn Restaurant and Bar – A perennial favorite in DC’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, Tune Inn won over voters with its classic drinks, unpretentious vibe, and commitment to community.
• Favorite Gathering Place of the Year: The Dew Drop Inn – This laid-back, friendly neighborhood spot has become a gathering hub for foodies and locals alike, and it was clearly a fan favorite.
• New Restaurant of the Year: La’ Shukran – The standout newcomer to the DC restaurant scene, La’ Shukran has impressed with its Mediterranean-inspired menu and welcoming atmosphere.
• Fast Casual Restaurant of the Year: La Tejana – A hit for its quick, flavorful, and authentic Mexican dishes, La Tejana continues to build a devoted following.
• Pastry Chef or Baker of the Year: Alicia Wang of Yellow/Albi/La’ Shukran – Wang’s artistry in pastry is a defining feature of these acclaimed eateries, earning her this well-deserved honor.

Other major awards included Cocktail Program of the Year going to Jane Jane, Manager of the Year to Lorena Reyes of Founding Farmers, and Wine Program of the Year to Era Wine Bar.

Publicly Voted Categories

The RAMMY Awards also spotlighted the public’s favorites, with four key categories decided by fan votes earlier this year:

• Best Brunch of the Year: Le Diplomate – A staple in the DC brunch scene, Le Diplomate continues to serve up the best croissants, mimosas, and French-inspired dishes.
• Hottest Sandwich Spot of the Year: Jetties – Known for its fresh and hearty sandwiches, Jetties earned its title with a menu that never disappoints.
• Service Program of the Year: El Cielo – This upscale restaurant not only dazzles with its food but also with its exceptional and attentive service, making every guest feel like royalty.

In addition to some legendary recognitions, several long-standing restaurants in the region were celebrated with Honorary Milestone Awards for reaching significant anniversaries:

• Washington, DC: Bistrot du Coin, Chef Geoff’s, and Bobby Van’s Steakhouse each marked 25 years of service.
• Maryland: Caribbean Superior celebrated 25 years.
• Virginia: Heidelberg Bakery and Celebrity Delly both marked 50 years in business, a remarkable testament to their enduring popularity.

To celebrate all of these fantastic foodie accolades, the 2025 RAMMYS featured dancing; a raw oyster bar; multiple food stations; self- and full-service bars; a sports arcade with air hockey, skeeball, and basketball; lounges sponsored by Events DC, Wonder (food hall), the Downtown BID, and Crystal City BID; and music from DJ Rise, Lost Kings, Too Much Talent… and attendees participating in karaoke!

For a full list of this year’s RAMMY winners, see here.