The Rotorua hospitality industry has acknowledged the outstanding abilities of its own with the announcement of the winners in the Rotorua Hospitality Awards.
Presented by the Restaurant Association, with the support of lead sponsor, Rotorua NZ, the awards recognise the hospitality professionals, all of whom are making a positive impact on the local café and dining scene. The Restaurant Association of New Zealand is proud to organise and foster these awards, with the main purpose being to unite, grow and promote the local hospitality industry.
Eat Street restaurant, Atticus Finch, took out three awards, including the supreme establishment award for its mod vibe and sidewalk seating, offering eclectic local mains and nibbles.
Atticus Finch’s Nicky Westbrook also took home the award for outstanding barista. The restaurant’s fit-out was also recognised with a win for its outstanding ambience and design.
Asian fusion restaurant, White Tiger Restaurant and Bar, was the clear local favourite winning the People’s Choice award.
Urbano recently celebrated 16 years of operation and has won the award for outstanding restaurant. Smart casual café by day and informal bistro restaurant by night, Urbano has won multiple awards for its innovative and contemporary cuisine, paired with unrivalled service. Urbano Bistro owners Richard and Julie Sewell were also recognised for their significant contribution to the local hospitality industry, jointly taking home the Icon of Hospitality award.
Inspired by the tapas cuisine of Spain, and already making a name for itself in Rotorua, Poco Tapas and Wine was awarded the outstanding new establishment. The Outstanding Chef award went to William Foote of The Mains Restaurant, on the point for his signature fine dining using premium local ingredients.
Those looking for a place to get a well-served beverage can rest assured there is no shortage of great places in the region.
Outstanding bar of the year went to popular central Rotorua establishment BREW, whilst Teina Cassidy of Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar took out the best bartender accolade.
Other winners on the night included Cafe Dynasti, which took home the award for outstanding café, whilst El Mexicano Zapata Cantina was awarded outstanding street food/casual dining.
Marisa Bidois, CEO Restaurant Association of New Zealand, said there is no shortage of exceptional dining options in Rotorua, from lakeside restaurants with panoramic views, to Eat Street bars and cafes.
“It’s great to see tourism returning to the region, and the awards are a great way to bring attention to the unforgettable dining experiences it has to offer,” said Bidois.
“With each category hotly contested, it’s very exciting to see new talent emerge and make their mark. It's important to recognise and support these individuals as they continue to develop. The fact that there were so many deserving nominees is a positive sign for the future of the hospitality industry in the region.”
