The finalists for the 2025 RAMMY Awards were announced on Monday by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. The awards ceremony will take place on August 3 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The RAMMYS aim to showcase the "depth and diversity" of Washington D.C.'s dining scene, with finalists competing in 20 categories, as mentioned by DC News Now.
The finalists for Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year include El Cielo DC and Pineapple and Pearls. Ometeo and King Street Oyster Bar are nominated for Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year. Chefs Carlos Delgado of Causa / Amazonia and Matt Adler of Caruso’s Grocery are recognized for their culinary contributions, as per DC Eater.
The nominees for Wine Program of the Year include ERA Wine Bar and Lulu’s Wine Bar. Atlas Brew Works and Red Bear Brewing Co. are nominated for Beer Program of the Year. "D.C. continues to be a great spot to get out, get together and eat," said Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington President Shawn Townsend, as reported by WTOP.
The 2025 RAMMY Awards will include categories determined by popular vote, such as Best Brunch of the Year and Favorite Gathering Place of the Year. The Fast Casual Restaurant category, previously decided by the public, will now be judged by a panel of anonymous judges. Restaurants like Emma’s Torch and Yellow are nominated for their fast-casual dining experience, according to DC News Now. Additional awards, including the Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award and the John G. Laytham Exceptional Leadership and Impact Award, will be presented on July 1. The main event will take place in August, and the community can participate by voting for finalists.
