PS Last week I chitchatted about columns which aren’t picked up by my outlets. I over submit to each outlet, but until the magazine gets published I don’t know which ones they don’t run. Going forward I will publish them here, but they’ll be a few months old as I want you to know about these events, often yearly events you should attend.
The TASTIES AWARDS celebrated the year’s best achievements in artisan Food, Drink, and outstanding Restaurants and Chefs,
Hosted by the Delicious City podcast, Dave Wez, Chef Eli Kulp and Marisa Magnatta, the Tasties is Philadelphia’s first-ever chef and restaurant awards show, celebrating the innovation, dedication, and excellence that make our food scene one of the best
in the country.
Guests gathered Sunday, February 2nd, 2025 at Live Casino to celebrate all the good in the Philadelphia culinary scene. Notable chefs, owners, experts in the food scene walked the red carpet, before enjoying a sit down dinner of Philly fare, entertainment and the awards show.
Season 16 @bravotopchef
The Burke family presented the Jim Burke Award For Culinary Excellence for Chef of the Year: Dionicio Jiménez. Chef Burke was a promising chef on the scene when I first came onto the scene in 2007. He and his wife Kristina Burke, owned a popular Bella Vista restaurant named James from 2007 to 2011. I remember at the opening they sent everyone home with a cataloupe, which represented a dish they served. It was heavy, but delicious. Sadly In 2022 he died at age 49, following his two-year battle with lung cancer.
Thanks to Mike Toub, the Hubby for shooting these photos, as I was still wearing a sling, and in much pain. I can never thank him enough for all that he did for me, us. xoxo
And The Winners Are:
WINNERS OF THE TASTIES
Hero of Hospitality Award: Mayor Cherelle Parker
Best Emotional Support Sandwich: Bronco Cutlet at Farina Di Vita
Cocktails: Friday Saturday Sunday
Hospitality: Vernick Food & Drink
Best Late-Night Joint: Messina Social Club
Next Level Neighborhood Spot: Royal Tavern
Standout Baker or Pastry Chef: Chris Dipiazza
Best Pop-Up or Supper Club: Habibi
Breakout Chef: Melissa McGrath
Dish Wizard: Elvin of Provenance
Icon: Zahav
Most Crave-Worthy Pizza Joint: Char
Best New Restaurant: Illata
Jim Burke Award For Culinary Excellence for Chef of the Year: Dionicio Jiménez
Restaurant of the Year: Kayala
What a great event, equally terrific podcast, hosted by three of the kindest Philadelphians. Go Phils!!
Socially Yours, HughE