Brand of Excellence

Honoring those who nourish the land and community.

This award celebrates a farmer, grower, or producer who demonstrates exceptional commitment to sustainable agriculture, soil stewardship, and regional food systems. Their work reflects deep care for the land, innovation in regenerative practices, and active collaboration with chefs and artisans.

“For cultivating more than crops—for cultivating connection, care, and community through the land’s bounty.”

Honoring culinary excellence rooted in place, passion, and purpose.

This award recognizes a chef whose culinary artistry elevates local ingredients and tells a compelling regional story. Through mentorship, creativity, and a commitment to collaboration, this chef lights the way for others in the Root to Table community.

“For igniting imaginations and appetites—honoring the past, innovating in the present, and inspiring the future of regional cuisine.”

Honoring those who champion connection, culture, and belonging.

This award is given to a local leader, advocate, or changemaker who strengthens the Root to Table mission through community engagement, education, or advocacy. Whether through policy, storytelling, or bridge-building, they stand tall in service of shared values.

“For being the steady hand, the open heart, and the trusted voice that holds the table together.”

Honoring the next generation of culinary or agricultural changemakers.

This award highlights an emerging chef, artisan, farmer, or young professional whose passion, skill, and vision promise to shape the future of food and hospitality. They represent the Root to Table legacy in motion.

“For planting the seeds of tomorrow’s table—fearlessly, authentically, and with purpose.”