2023 Crazies Awards Recap

The 2023 CRAZIES Awards at Foxwoods Resort & Casino illuminated the prowess of Connecticut's culinary and hospitality professionals. The Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) orchestrated this sold-out gala, uniting 1,400 attendees who filled the casino to honor the industry's skill and talent. Guided by a seasoned media panel and over 25,000 online votes, 21 prestigious awards were bestowed upon deserving recipients from across the state. Governor Ned Lamont graced the event with his presence, addressing the gathering.

Scott Dolch, President and CEO of CRA, hailed the night as a "huge success" not only for the industry but also for the tens of thousands of residents employed by the CRA. Dolch emphasized the pivotal role played by Connecticut's restaurant and hospitality sector, constituting nearly 10% of all jobs in the state. He expressed eagerness to build on this success, encouraging everyone in the hospitality sector to participate in this annual celebration.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Overall and County Restaurant of the Year Awards. Coracora clinched the prestigious 2023 Connecticut Restaurant of the Year, surpassing seven county winners and 24 nominees.

The coveted Chef of the Year award, sponsored by Performance Foodservice, was bestowed upon David DiStasi of Materia Ristorante in Bantam. The Newcomer and Caterer of the Year titles were claimed by 29 Markle CT (Bridgeport) and Café Louise (West Hartford), respectively.

The accolades extended to the service industry, with Meghan Zampedri from Fair Haven Oyster Co. (New Haven) earning Server of the Year, and Sam Reyes from Mariposa Taqueria (Danbury) securing Bartender of the Year.

Franck Iglesias of Foxwoods Resort Casino (Mashantucket) emerged as Pastry Chef of the Year, while J. Timothy’s Taverne (Plainville) received the People’s Choice award. Seacoast Mushrooms (Mystic) was named Vendor of the Year.

Adding to the accolades, Tony Pham and Rich Reyes of Mecha Noodle Bar were recognized as the 2023 Restaurateurs of the Year. Their five Mecha Noodle Bar locations across the state epitomize culinary excellence.

Pellicci’s Ristorante (Stamford) and Shady Glen Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor (Manchester) received the honor of induction into the Connecticut Hospitality Hall of Fame.

Connecticut House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora earned the Friend of the Industry award for his commendable efforts and collaboration with the state’s restaurant and hospitality industry.

Beyond individual accolades, Wilbur Cross High School was acknowledged for its restaurant management team winning a National Championship at the National ProStart Invitational in May, a testament to the significance of the ProStart program now reaching 2,600 students across 18 high schools in the state.

To explore more about the Connecticut Restaurant Association and the CRAZIES, visit their website.