Finalists for the annual Waikato Hospitality Awards have been announced, acknowledging the best dining establishments within the region. The nominees were voted for by the hospitality industry.
Late-night lounge, Ernest, has been named in seven categories, making the Hamilton-based bar and eatery the most nominated establishment for the 2023 awards. Ernest staff Sean McLennon, Dylan Hawkings, and Roberto Valenzuela have been nominated in the categories of outstanding chef, emerging chef, emerging front of house, and outstanding bartender categories.
Ernest was also picked up a nod for outstanding bar, ambience and design, and outstanding front-of-house categories.
Haedyn Woollaston of Ernest has also been nominated for the outstanding chef award, alongside Logan Murray of Thyme Square Restaurant, Mat McLean of Palate Restaurant, and Amanda-Jo Pickup of The Lookout Bar and Kitchen.
Fellow Hamilton Bar and Restaurant, Mr. Pickles, has snagged a total of six nominations, including outstanding bartender, emerging chef, outstanding front of house, outstanding restaurant, and ambience and design.
Nominees for the outstanding cafe category are Lykke Cafe, Everyday Eatery, Cream Eatery and Kopi Café, with four of the region's best coffee makers securing a nomination for outstanding barista.
In total, 15 awards are to be presented on the night, with the best of the best recognised for their strong work within the local hospitality sector. The award has aimed to celebrate all aspects of the hospitality service industry, from crew members, to suppliers, to establishments.
Restaurant Association of New Zealand CEO, Marissa Bidois, said that there is a wealth of exceptional dining choices in the Waikato region, offering a vast range of different styles and cuisines from rustic to gourmet establishments, to chic cafes.
“We must pause to acknowledge those individuals who celebrate our exceptional produce and graciously invite us into their venues. Among the remarkable finalists, there stand champions of the local hospitality industry, deserving of our recognition.”
Members of the Waikato region have been encouraged to vote for their favourite nominees through the people’s choice category. Voting is open until Sunday, the third of September, with the winners to be announced at the ceremony on Sunday, the 17th of September. Tickets to the event are available.
