CRAzies Awards Categories & Descriptions

​Chef of the Year
​Best chef in Connecticut.  A Connecticut chef whose work exemplifies excellence and sets new or consistent industry standards and who serves as an inspiration to other food professionals.

Baker of the Year
​Best Baker in Connecticut.  A Connecticut baker whose work sets new or consistent industry standards and who serves as an inspiration to other food professionals. (Note: This award alternates biannually with Pastry Chef of the Year)

Caterer of the Year
Best caterer in Connecticut.  A Connecticut caterer who sets the standard for excellence and hospitality.

Server of the Year
​Best server in Connecticut. Demonstrates outstanding service, high standards in hospitality and serves as a model employee.

Bartender of the Year
​Best bartender in Connecticut.  Demonstrates excellence in cocktails, spirits, beer and wine service.

Vendor of the Year
​​A business providing a product or service to the restaurant or food service industry and exemplifying continued commitment to superior quality, service & support.

Restaurant Newcomer
​Best NEW restaurant in Connecticut. Displays excellence in food, beverage, service and atmosphere and likely to make a positive impact on the CT restaurant scene. Must have been in business for at least 6 months and less than 2 years.

Restaurant of the Year
​​A Connecticut restaurant that consistently demonstrates quality and excellence in food, service and atmosphere, while making a positive impact in the community

• Restaurant of the Year - North Region (Hartford County & Tolland County)
• Restaurant of the Year - South Region (New Haven County & Middlesex County)
• Restaurant of the Year - East Region (New London County & Windham County)
• Restaurant of the Year - West Region (Litchfield County & Fairfield County)

Restaurateur of the Year
​Best hands-on restaurant owner or managing partner who sets high standards for operation, entrepreneurship, and serves as inspiration to other food service professionals.

Hospitality Hall of Fame
​A Connecticut restaurant in business for 25 years or more, with consistently high standards of hospitality and service, and widely considered an iconic dining destination.

People's Choice
​​Your favorite restaurant, dining establishment or local hotspot in Connecticut. Open to full range of dining concepts, restaurant types and diversity of cuisines.