Hospitality industry to honor influential and impactful people at NJRHA 41st Annual Awards. ROI-NJ Staff(Hamilton) September 2, 2026 New Jersey's hospitality industry will come together to celebrate the leaders, businesses and champions driving excellence and innovation across the state at the 2026 New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association Awards Ceremony on Nov. 5 at John Henry's Stone Terrace in Hamilton. The annual celebration recognizes standout achievement across the industry - from accomplished restaurant operators and longtime hospitality leaders to industry partners and public officials who've championed New Jersey's hospitality community. "New Jersey's hospitality industry is strengthened by leaders who are willing to invest in its growth, champion its people and help move it forward," said NJRHA President and CEO Daniel Klim. "This year's honorees have each made a meaningful and lasting contribution - through the businesses they have built, the opportunities they have created and the leadership they have shown. Their impact extends well beyond their own organizations, and we are proud to recognize the role they continue to play in shaping the future of hospitality in New Jersey." NJRHA Chairman Denise Beckson emphasized the people and relationships at the heart of that success. "Hospitality is built on relationships, hard work, and a genuine commitment to serving others," Beckson said. "These qualities shine through this year's honorees - in how they lead, uplift their teams, and strengthen their communities. Celebrating their achievements together is one of the most meaningful aspects of these awards." This year's announced honorees are: Restaurateur of the Year - The Bonfiglio Family & Triple T Hospitality Triple T Hospitality, the family-owned restaurant group behind Tommy's Tavern + Tap, and Tio Taco + Tequila, will receive NJRHA's Restaurateur of the Year Award, recognizing the company's continued growth, expanding footprint and impact on New Jersey's restaurant community. Deborah (Roy) Dowdell Lifetime Achievement Award - Jeanne Cretella, By Landmark Jeanne Cretella, co-founder of By Landmark, has built a family-owned hospitality company with a growing portfolio of restaurants and venues across New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Hospitality Award - Steve Sanders, Sea Breeze Syrups Steve Sanders of Sea Breeze Syrups will receive the Hospitality Award, recognizing his service to the industry and his dedication to creating opportunities for young people. Friend of the Industry - Senator Vin Gopal Sen. Vin Gopal will receive the Friend of the Industry Award, recognizing his support for New Jersey's restaurant and hospitality community, his willingness to engage directly with operators, and his leadership on issues critical to the industry's success. Hotelier of the Year - Crystal Springs Resort Crystal Springs Resort will receive the Hotelier of the Year Award, recognizing its commitment to hospitality, continued investment in New Jersey tourism, and leadership in delivering memorable guest experiences. Attraction of the Year - Adventure Aquarium Adventure Aquarium will receive the Attraction of the Year Award, recognizing its role as one of New Jersey's premier destinations, its commitment to creating memorable visitor experiences, and its contribution to the state's tourism and hospitality economy. Community Impact Award - Trenton Area Soup Kitchen Trenton Area Soup Kitchen will receive the Community Impact Award, recognizing its service to the community, commitment to addressing hunger and food insecurity, and dedication to supporting those throughout the Trenton region. Executive Chef of the Year - To Be Determined by Public Vote Beginning in September NJRHA will once again give the public a voice in the awards by inviting diners and hospitality supporters across New Jersey to help select the 2026 Executive Chef of the Year. Finalists and voting details will be announced in the coming weeks.