Named after Richard Lewisham who was a pioneer of the Auckland hospitality scene, The Lewisham Awards were established in 2002 with the main objective to encourage excellence in the city’s hospitality community.
It comes as no surprise to us that 13 city centre establishments have been nominated as finalists for their outstanding work - check them out below.
Josh Shields (left) and Frank Camorra (right). Image supplied
MoVida - Josh Shields | Outstanding Chef
MoVida's Josh Shields finds himself amongst the nominees for the Outstanding Chef award, recognising those who produce innovative and creative menus and show exceptional culinary techniques using only the best ingredients. They can get the front of house team to believe in their outstanding dishes as much as they do, which in turn ensures their vision is successfully communicated to all guests.
The Parasol and Swing Company; Cal Ross, Panacea; Danny Dentith & Vivace; Tye Okieffe | Outstanding Front of House
There are three nominees from city centre venues for the Outstanding Front Of House award which celebrates excellence in putting the customer first. Not only do these nominees they have a full knowledge of the menu, beverage, and wine lists but they use their initiative, are perceptive and tactful. Check them out in action at Parasol & Swing, Panacea and Vivace today!
Panacea & Bossi | Outstanding New Establishment
The city centre is full of new and exciting establishments and we're stoked to see Panacea and Bossi recognised as nominees for the Outstanding New Venue award. They're recognised for their fantastic atmospheres and unique points of difference since opening last year. Not been to one or both yet? Check out more about them here.
Image credit: Wono Kim and Restaurant and Cafe
La Fuente
La Fuente | Outstanding Wine Experience
If you've ever visited popular laneway wine bar La Fuente, you'll understand why they're nominated in this category. The Outstanding Wine Experience reflects both the overall style of the establishment, its wine list and level of service. We think La Fuente would be a very deserving winner!
Cassia at SkyCity; Stephen Sami & MoVida; Pete Watson | Emerging Hospitality Talent
It's super exciting to see two nominees from the city centre in this category too, with the winner given the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and skills in the industry by taking part in a mentoring programme designed to further their experience and grow their networks.
Caretaker & Panacea | Outstanding Cocktail Experience
We're not short on incredible cocktail offerings in the heart of the city and definitely not surprised to see Caretaker and newcomer Panacea on this list. Their cocktails are innovative, interesting, thoughtful, and fun and the team behind them are consummate professionals.
Image credit: Wono Kim
Panacea; Dany Dentith & Panacea; Theo Tjandra | Outstanding Bartender
Panacea has come in with more nominations thanks to their super talented bartenders Dany Dentith and Theo Tjandra. This award recognises bartender's excellent memory, unique personal style and talent to make pretty much anything thanks to their vast knowledge of the products they work with. Check out more about Panacea, here.
Homeland | Outstanding Cafe
The Outstanding Cafe award recognises an establishment that offers an array of great food, superb coffee, fabulous staff, ambience and standout customer service. So it's no surprise to find Homeland amongst the nominees. Dubbed the 'food embassy of NZ' - check out more about Peter Gordon's Homeland, here.
Ahi & kingi | Sustainability Award
Ahi and kingi both have sustainability at the forefront of everything they do, with menus designed with thought and our future in mind, championing the best local ingredients and producers. It's great to see them nominated in this category!
alma & La Fuente | Outstanding Local Establishment Central
The Outstanding Establishment has been around for longer than two years. They bring their loyal fans back time and time again and all the while gaining new ones. They constantly keep things fresh, but their winning formula is their team, their menus and beverage selection, a fantastic environment and their commitment to both customers and suppliers.
Ahi | Outstanding Innovation
Great innovation has the ability to allow people to feed our communities in the very best way possible, save the planet, be more efficient and change the hospitality landscape for the better. Ahi, led by Chef Ben Bayley is recognised as one restaurant leading the way in this space. See more about what they stand for, here.
The Parasol and Swing Company, Panacea & La Fuente | Restaurant Association Hospitality Hero
The Outstanding Personality is an individual who, over an extended period, has shown outstanding commitment to the betterment of Auckland’s hospitality industry. They are a true brand ambassador for hospitality and willingly give their time and expertise to the next generation. We're proud to see there are nominees in this category from three city centre establishments!
Image credit: Wono Kim (Panacea)
