Austin Chefs, Mixologists, and More Cheer Each Other on at the Tastemaker Awards

A night of grandeur, camaraderie, and industry recognition brought the culinary maestros of Austin together at the celebrated Tastemaker Awards on April 11, 2024. This glittering event celebrated local chefs, mixologists, and other representatives from Austin’s finest restaurants and bars, with each establishment cheering for its contemporaries and acknowledging their accomplishments over the year.

The chosen nominees for the awards were handpicked by a panel comprising the previous year’s winners and other industry professionals, ensuring the accolades rightfully represented the true spirit and craft of the Austin food and beverage industry. One unique category, Best New Restaurant, saw fans casting their votes to decide the winner.

Innovative Bites, Mixed Drinks and a Night to Remember

Gathered at Distribution Hall, the attendees were treated to innovative delicacies from the 15 nominated restaurants, with the open bar serving special cocktails crafted with spirits from sponsors Flor de Caña Rum and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Non-alcoholic options from Ritual Zero Proof and Topo Chico were also available for guests.

The nominated restaurants offered a broad spectrum of culinary delights for tasting. Asian cuisine took center stage, with Watertrade and Honey Moon Spirit Lounge serving up their versions of onigiri and aguachile respectively. Adding a dash of European flair was NG Cafe with its open-faced bánh mì. An unexpected yet delightful surprise was offered by Margarita Kallas-Lee of Wolf & Wheat in the form of smoked banana ice cream sandwiches on brown butter brioche cookies, served with a caviar bump.

The Glorious Winners

Tim League, founder of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, donned the hat of emcee for the night, announcing the winners amidst the louder-than-expected applause and cheering. Notable winners included Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel of Birdie’s who was named Chef of the Year, and Sarah McIntosh of Épicerie who was bestowed with the Pastry Chef of the Year title. The biggest accolade of the evening, Restaurant of the Year, was bagged by Canje, with Harvard Aninye, a nominee for the Rising Star Chef title, accepting the award in dazzling outfit.

The remarkable night of culinary martinis served as a testament to the prowess, dedication, and creativity of Austin’s food and beverage sector. The industry eagerly looks forward to the next edition of the Tastemaker Awards, to celebrate, acknowledge, and cheer for their peers.