These MD Restaurants Were Named 2026 RAMMY Finalists

MARYLAND — The finalists for the 2026 RAMMY Awards were announced this week and the Old Line State is being represented in several categories.

The annual celebration is the regional restaurant and food service awards held by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington.

It recognizes eateries in the industry that are advancing what it means to deliver top-level service.

Anne Arundel, Montgomery, Prince George's and Calvert counties are being represented across the 20 award categories.

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“At The RAMMYS, you’re immersed in the full experience of what makes the D.C. region such a powerhouse for dining,” said Shawn Townsend, president and CEO of RAMW.

“These finalists aren’t just doing exceptional work, they’re also elevating the standard and creating the kind of special moments that keep people coming back and talking about the Washington region as a world-class dining destination. That momentum is real, and it keeps on growing.”

Of the award categories, a select few — Best Bar, Best Brunch, Hottest Sandwich Spot, and Favorite Gathering Place — will be selected by the public.

Starting April 20, votes can be submitted online through media partner NBC4 Washington. The voter portal closes May 16.

The 2026 awards ceremony will be held on June 29.

Find a breakdown of the restaurants with Maryland ties below:

Fast Casual Restaurant Of The Year

• Call Your Mother
  Locations in North Bethesda, Annapolis
• Andy's Pizza
  Locations in North Bethesda and Gaithersburg
• San Pancho
  Takoma Park

Hottest Sandwich Spot Of The Year

• SOKO Butcher
  Takoma park
• 2fifty Texas BBQ
  Riverdale

Beer Program Of The Year

• Pizzeria Paradiso
  Hyattsville

Rising Culinary Star Of The Year

• Anthony Jones
  Marcus DC
  Jones' hometown is in Calvert Co.'s Sunderland. He participated in the 23rd season of "Top Chef."

Manager Of The Year

• Lauren Montana
  Pizzeria Paradiso
• Debby Portillo
  2fifty Texas BBQ

Employee Of The Year

• Jose Luis Salgado — Zinnia
  Silver Spring

Chef Of The Year

• Matt Adler — Cucina MORINI and Caruso’s Grocery
  - Caruso’s Grocery has a location in North Bethesda

Restaurateur Of The Year

• Fernando González — 2fifty Texas BBQ