WASHINGTON (March 25, 2026) — The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) will reveal the Finalists for the 44th RAMMYS Awards & Gala during The RAMMYS Finalist Announcement on Monday, April 6, at The Hamilton Live.
The event will narrow this year’s pool of Semi-Finalists to five Finalists in each of the 19 award categories, offering the first official look at the chefs, restaurants and hospitality professionals advancing to the region’s most prestigious restaurant industry awards.
“This is our moment to recognize the people and places that make us one of the most exciting restaurant communities in the country,” said Shawn Townsend, president and CEO of RAMW. “The D.C. region’s restaurant scene is defined by its talent and diversity, and The RAMMYS celebrate the professionals who make it thrive.”
The RAMMYS Finalist Announcement will be emceed by Sunni And The City, radio and television host with 96.3 WHUR and FOX 5. The event will also feature tasting stations from restaurants competing in the New Restaurant of the Year and Cocktail Program of the Year categories.
Presented annually by RAMW, The RAMMYS is the restaurant industry’s biggest night. It celebrates excellence across the Washington region’s restaurant and foodservice community.
Sponsorships and tickets for The RAMMYS, to be held on Monday, June 29, are now available at TheRAMMYS.org.
Media attendance for The RAMMYS Finalist Announcement is limited to two representatives per outlet. To attend, RSVP by Monday, March 30, to media@linksp.com.
The RAMMYS Finalist Announcement is sponsored by Acme Paper and Supply, Co., Acqua, Panna, DC Brau, DC Health Link, The Hamilton Live, S.Pellegrino, SanPellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks, Saval Foodservice, and Republic National Distributing Co.
About Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW)
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) is the regional trade association representing restaurants and the food service industry in the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Area. Established in 1920, RAMW is an advocate, resource and community for its members. The Association works to promote and sustain the growth and development of the industry while providing its members legislative and regulatory representation, marketing and small business support, programming and events. RAMW strives to serve its members with professionalism and integrity and provide them with the training, education and support they need to grow a successful business.