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.

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.

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

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.

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

Vendor of the Year (not voted on by public)
​​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 - Hartford County
  • Restaurant of the Year - Tolland County
  • Restaurant of the Year - New Haven County
  • Restaurant of the Year - Middlesex County
  • Restaurant of the Year - Windham County
  • Restaurant of the Year - New London County
  • Restaurant of the Year - Litchfield County
  • Restaurant of the Year - Fairfield County

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.

Friend of the Industry (not voted on by public)
An individual and/or organization that works to protect our industry and provide added support for its future growth.

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.