Join us Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at the second annual RAMMYS Honors Cocktail Reception to celebrate the recipients of some of our industry’s most esteemed awards. Each recipient of these awards is a paragon of excellence in the restaurant industry, and it is a highlight of the season to gather them in one location to honor and celebrate their achievements.
We are proud to recognize leaders like Ruth Gresser, Virginia Ali, and Linda Roth, who embody what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and a commitment to uplifting their communities,” said Shawn Townsend, President and CEO of RAMW. “They aren’t just leaders, they’re legends. Their impact reaches beyond the plate — they’ve changed the way our region eats, gathers, and thrives.
The 2025 Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry and the greater Washington community, will be presented to Ruth Gresser, Chef and Co-Owner of Pizzeria Paradiso. A pioneer of the region’s artisanal pizza movement, Gresser has been a trailblazer in sustainable practices and a vocal advocate for equity in hospitality for more than 30 years. Read about Chef Ruth Gresser.
The 2025 John G. Laytham Exceptional Leadership and Impact Award will be awarded to Virginia Ali and the Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation. For over 65 years, Ali has served DC as the matriarch of one of its most iconic restaurants, advancing civil rights, culture, and community care. During the pandemic, the Foundation provided over 5,000 free meals to first responders and raised $64,000 to support the effort. It has since supported 28 organizations and continues to invest in youth empowerment. Read about Virigina Ali and the Ben’s Chili Bowl Foundation.
A 2025 Honorary RAMMY Award will be presented to Linda Roth, Founder and CEO of LRA PR Roth has been a guiding force behind the scenes of Washington’s dining culture for decades, helping shape the public presence of the region’s leading restaurants through strategic communications and industry advocacy. Read about Linda Roth.
Milestone Award Honorees
Commemorating long-standing local restaurants and RAMW members who are celebrating 25th, 50th, or 75th anniversaries of service. The Honorary Milestone Award is bestowed upon restaurants from casual to formal, including some of the region’s most celebrated dining institutions. Read more about this year’s Milestone Honorees.
The Joan Hisaoka Allied Member of the Year Award is presented to an associate member who best exemplifies commitment to and support of RAMW and our mission. The winner is determined by the RAMW Executive Committee. View the slate of 2025 RAMMYS Finalists.