NJRHA names 8 finalists for 2026 Executive Chef of the Year

Ahead of its annual awards dinner, the New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association named eight finalists for its 2026 Executive Chef of the Year award.

Now, NJRHA is asking the public to vote on who it should name New Jersey’s next top chef. Between Oct. 12–23, foodies can log onto njrha.org to select their pick for the honor. The statewide trade group said it will reveal the winner during an awards ceremony Nov. 5.

From neighborhood favorites to acclaimed dining destinations, this year’s finalists “represent the talent and culinary diversity that make New Jersey’s restaurant industry exceptional,” the group said.

2026 Executive Chef of the Year finalists:

• Cliff Crooks – Viv & Jules, Hoboken
• Aishling Stevens – The Grand Tavern, Neptune
• Dennis Foy – de floret, Lambertville
• Allen Walski – Clemmy’s, Waretown
• Joseph Sergentakis – Revell Hall, Burlington
• Nick DeRosa – Black Sheep, Garwood
• Conor Browne – Lula, Ridgewood
• Sam Stymest – Sam’s Table, Montclair

NJRHA President and CEO Daniel Klim said, “New Jersey has an incredible culinary community, and these eight finalists reflect the creativity, dedication and passion that make our state’s restaurants so special. Behind every great dining experience is a talented team, and these chefs help set the standard through their leadership in the kitchen and the experiences they create for guests.”

Additional honorees

The program is now in its 41st year. The awards recognize standout achievement across the sector. Recipients range from restaurant operators and longtime hospitality leaders to industry partners as well as public officials who have championed New Jersey businesses.

This year’s event will run from 5–9 p.m. at John Henry’s Stone Terrace in Hamilton. Click here for details on tickets and sponsorship opportunities.

Other awards NJRHA will present during this year’s ceremony include:

• Restaurateur of the Year: The Bonfiglio Family & Triple T Hospitality
  The family-owned restaurant group behind Tommy’s Tavern + Tap and Tio Taco + Tequila, Triple T Hospitality is recognized for its continued growth, expanding footprint and impact on the state’s restaurant community.
• Deborah Dowdell Lifetime Achievement Award: Jeanne Cretella of By Landmark
  As co-founder of Plainfield-headquartered By Landmark, Cretella has built a successful family-owned hospitality company with a growing portfolio of distinctive restaurants and venues across New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
• Hospitality Award: Steve Sanders of Sea Breeze Syrups
  The chairman of the Towaco-based, fourth-generation, family-owned independent manufacturer and distributor, Sanders is know for his longstanding service to the industry, as well as dedication to creating employment opportunities for young people and strengthening hospitality’s future workforce.
• Friend of the Industry: State Sen. Vin Gopal
  The Democratic legislator from the 11th District earns praise for supporting the restaurant and hospitality community, along with his willingness to engage directly with operators and leadership on issues critical to the sector.
• Hotelier of the Year: Crystal Springs Resort
  The Vernon property is noted for its commitment to hospitality, continued investment in New Jersey tourism and leadership in delivering memorable guest experiences.
• Attraction of the Year: Adventure Aquarium
  The Camden site is showcased for its role as one of the state’s premier destinations and contribution to the broader tourism and hospitality economy, as well as delivering top-notch visitor experiences.
• Community Impact Award: Trenton Area Soup Kitchen
  The nonprofit is applauded for its longstanding goal of addressing hunger and food insecurity along with supporting individuals and families throughout the Trenton region.

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