Chef At New Bergen County Restaurant Is Finalist For Statewide Award

A chef at a relatively new Ridgewood restaurant is nominated for "Chef of the Year" in New Jersey. You can vote.

By Caren Lissner, Patch Staff

Oct 13, 2026 12:55 PM EDT

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — A chef in a relatively new Ridgewood restaurant is a finalist for a statewide award, a restaurant association announced Monday.

The New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association announced eight finalists for its 2026 Chef of the Year Award, and the public can vote starting this week.

Nominees include:

Cliff Crooks – Viv & Jules, Hoboken
Aishling Stevens – The Grand Tavern, Neptune
Dennis Foy – de floret, Lambertville
Allen Walski – Clemmy's, Waretown
Nick DeRosa – Black Sheep, Garwood
Conor Browne – Lula, Ridgewood
Sam Stymest – Sam's Table, Montclair
Joseph Sergentakis – Revell Hall, Burlington

Browne opened his eatery in early 2025.

The chef told Patch last year that the chef-driven New American spot is a "lifelong dream."

The award is intended to "recognize the culinary talent, creativity and leadership shaping New Jersey's vibrant restaurant scene," the group noted.

The public can vote through 5 p.m. on Oct. 23, using the link blow.

"From neighborhood favorites to acclaimed dining destinations, this year's finalists represent the talent
and culinary diversity that make New Jersey's restaurant industry exceptional," said the group, in a release.

"New Jersey has an incredible culinary community, and these eight finalists reflect the creativity, dedication and passion that make our state's restaurants so special," NJRHA President and CEO Daniel Klim said. "Behind every great dining experience is a talented team, and these chefs help set the standard through their leadership in the kitchen and the experiences they create for guests."

The winner will be announced and honored during NJRHA's 41st Awards Ceremony on Nov. 5 at John Henry's Stone Terrace in Hamilton, in Mercer County.

Other honors will be presented, including: Restaurateur of the Year, for the Bonfiglio Family and Triple T Hospitality, Lifetime Achievement Award for Jeanne Cretella, Hospitality Award for Steve Sanders of Sea Breeze Syrups, Friend of the Industry to Sen. Vin Gopal, Hotelier of the Year to Crystal Springs Resort, Attraction of the Year to Adventure Aquarium, and an award to the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen.

Votes may be cast online at njrha.org/.