2026 Restaurant & Winery Award Winners

As voted on by a panel of over 60 food judges representing local media, political, business, and community development sectors.

Chair’s Choice (chosen by Adam Roma, 2026 Taste of Buffalo Chair): Hiibachi Fried Rice, Honey Garlic Salmon Bites

Children’s Choice (chosen by Estelle Roma, Louis Roma and Maria Roma): Fat Bob’s Smokehouse, Mac N ‘Cheese

Louis J. Billittier Sr. Rookie of the Year Award: Street Cravings

Veteran Restaurant Winner: La Casa de Sabores

Eric DuVall Memorial Best of Buffalo Winner: Milk Tea’rapy, Adobe with Steamed Rice

Best Overall Item:  La Cocina De TiTi Restaurant, Cilantro Rice, Grilled Tropical Chicken Thigh & Plantains

Best New Item: D.A.Taste, Watermelon & Mango Twist Soft Serve

Best Surf or Turf Item: Caribbean Taste, Rasta Pasta with Chicken

Best Dessert: Nickel City Vice, You’re Nuts

Best Handheld: Dirty Bird Chicken N’ Waffles LLC, Fried Cauliflower Taco

Best Red Wine: Three Brothers Wineries, Cabernet Franc

Best White Wine: A Gust of Sun Winery, Sparkling Peach

Favorite Fermentation: Victorianbourg Wine Estate, Klavier