Monmouth County Chef Nominated For 2026 Chef Of The Year Award

NEPTUNE, NJ — A local chef has been named as one of eight finalists for the 2026 Chef of the Year Award, the NJ Restaurant & Hospitality Association (NJRHA) announced Monday.

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, officials said.

In Monmouth County, Aishling Stevens of The Grand Tavern in Neptune has been named as one of the finalists for this year's Executive Chef of the Year award.

In an online post, the tavern said they are honored to announce Stevens' nomination and encouraged community members to vote on an award winner through Oct. 23.

"We appreciate your support!" the tavern said. "Best of luck to all the nominees!"

Public voting for this year's Chef of the Year Award opened on Monday and will run through 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23.

The winner will be announced and honored during NJRHA's 41st Awards Ceremony on Nov. 5 at John Henry's Stone Terrace in Hamilton. Votes can be cast online here.

“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 & 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,” Klim continued.

In addition to Stevens, the other chefs named as 2026 Executive Chef of the Year finalists are:

• Cliff Crooks (Viv & Jules, Hoboken)
• Dennis Foy (de floret, Lambertville)
• Allen Walski (Clemmy's, Waretown)
• Joseph Sergentakis (Revell Hall, Burlington)
• Nick DeRosa (Black Sheep, Garwood)
• Conor Browne (Lula, Ridgewood)
• Sam Stymest (Sam's Table, Montclair)

The Chef of the Year Award is among several honors to be presented during the ceremony on Nov. 5.

This year's honorees also include the Bonfiglio Family and Triple T Hospitality (Restaurateur of the Year), Jeanne Cretella of By Landmark (Lifetime Achievement Award), Steve Sanders of Sea Breeze Syrups (Hospitality Award), Senator Vin Gopal (Friend of the Industry), Crystal Springs Resort (Hotelier of the Year), Adventure Aquarium (Attraction of the Year), Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (Community Impact Award) and Rory Philipson of Mercer County Technical Schools (ProStart Teacher of the Year).

Now in its 41st year, the NJRHA Awards Ceremony aims to unite industry leaders, restaurant operators, business partners and elected officials to celebrate outstanding achievement and the
individuals and organizations making meaningful contributions to New Jersey's hospitality community.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the Nov. 5 ceremony are available here.