Hawke's Bay's food and wine celebrated at hospitality awards

It was a night for the hospitality stars of Hawke's Bay to set down their aprons and instead celebrate their achievements at the Hawke's Bay Hospitality awards.

The Hospo Hero of the Year went to Ashley Jones of Elephant Hill, who has been working in hospitality for over 20 years, and at Elephant Hill for the past 11.

He is leaving his role to pursue a new career at Takitimu Seafood.

He was given the award due to his leadership in the Hawke's Bay Hospitality industry as well as his continued involvement.

It was a good year for Craggy Range, who took out two top awards, winning outstanding winery restaurant along with best chef for Casey McDonald.

The Hawke's Bay Today Outstanding Coffee Establishment award went to
Hawthorne Coffee Roasters and The Hits People Choice Award was presented to Adoro in Ahuriri.

Havelock North restuarant Malo won the award for outstanding ambiance and design, thanks to its Scandinavian inspired décor and mid-century style chairs, wooden floors, slatted screen and feature wall.

Three Wise Birds took out the Outstanding Bar award, and Bistronomy was once again recognised as the best restaurant in the region.

Other winners included Funbuns, which took out best cocktail experience, and Matisse Wine Bar which had the best wine and beverage list in the region.

CEO of the Restaurant Association of New Zealand Marisa Bidois said it was important to take time out and celebrate as an industry.

"Hawke's Bay is a mecca for both local and international guests, so it's great to see so many incredible dining experiences in the region."

"We believe it's important to shine a light on our industry and make sure we are recognised for the contribution we make to our community and economy.

"With all categories keenly contested, this year's winners truly exemplify what it means to be at the top of their respective categories."

The awards were held on Monday night at MTG in Napier.

Full list of Winners
Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Barista
Benjamin Fernandez, Georgia on Tennyson

V Pure Outstanding Bartender
Nils Kühlsen, Emporium Eatery & Bar

nib Health Insurance Front of House Team
Deliciosa Restaurant

Service Foods Outstanding Chef
Casey McDonald, Craggy Range Restaurant

EIT Hawke's Bay Emerging Chef
Jitin Joshi, Piku at Red Barrel

Hawke's Bay Today Outstanding Coffee Establishment
Hawthorne Coffee Roasters

The Hits People Choice Award
Adoro Cafe in Ahuriri.

Bidfood Hawke's Bay Outstanding Café
Little Black Bird

Monin NZ Outstanding Cocktail Experience
Funbuns

Lion NZ Outstanding Bar
Three Wise Birds Garden Bar

Unison Fibre Outstanding Local
Common Room

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding International Dining Experience
Sai Eatery

Independent Liquor Outstanding Wine & Beverage List
Matisse Wine Bar

Nova Energy Outstanding Winery Restaurant
Craggy Range Restaurant

OneMusic Outstanding Restaurant
Bistronomy

Clearview Estate Winery Outstanding Ambience & Design
Malo

Shed 2 Outstanding Sales Rep
David Thompson, Gourmeats