The most delicious event of the year is almost here: CultureMap's annual Tastemaker Awards.
Our signature tasting event and awards ceremony is happening Thursday, April 9 at Distribution Hall, bringing with it a whole buffet of chef-driven bites and perfectly paired sips that celebrate Austin's unique culinary scene.
Attendees get one delicious evening to sample to their hearts' content, with offerings prepared by the nominees for Restaurant of the Year, Chef of the Year, Rising Star Chef, Bar of the Year, Dessert Program of the Year, Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year, Coffee Shop of the Year, and more.
Our judging panel of industry experts — including past Tastemaker champs — selects the nominees and winners, including this year's buzzy wildcard category of Best Sandwich.
However, you determine who wins Best New Restaurant via our online tournament, so be sure to make your votes count before the big day!
You'll want to come hungry to the Tastemaker Awards, considering this sneak peek at what's on the menu:
- Tortellini shooters from Casa Bianca
- Mini meatballs marinara from Cousin Louie's
- Puerco verde tamales and tacos pastor from Eldorado Cafe
- Hog Pen Pizza (with Texas Iberico sausage, kale, and fig) from Garage Pizza
- Sichuan dry stir-fried chicken (辣子鸡) and Jumping Fish with fresh pepper (跳跳鱼) from House of Three Gorges
- Tartelette au bœuf bourguignon from Justine's Brasserie
- The Knuckle Sandwich (a signature Italian sub) from Knuckle Sandwich
- Meatballs della Nonna from Moderna Bar & Pizzeria
- Sichuan mala tang (spicy numbing hot pot cold skewers) from Old Alley Hot Pot
- Goat and Padano cheese-stuffed dates and a Papá Doble to sip from Péché
- Pura Vida Bowl and the Hotel California cocktail from Powder Room and Manny's
- House-made rigatoni in vodka sauce by Rocco's Neighborhood Joint
- Caviar tastings from Austin Cart Co.
Specialty drinks include:
- La Frida cocktail (with Tequila Herradura, coconut liqueur, and Xocolatl mole bitters) from La Mezca
- Golden Equinox (iced espresso, pineapple, ginger), Thai Tea Old Fashioned, and Mole Mezcal Negroni from Leona Botanical Café & Bar
To help wet your whistle, sip on brews from Lone Star Beer; samples from Tequila Herradura (Blanco and Ultra) and Diplomático Rum (Planas, Reserva, and Mantuano); and a signature cocktail from Fords Gin.
Other specialty drinks available at the bar will feature Herradura; Diplomático; and Maker’s Mark Bourbon, the latter in collaboration with Garrison at Fairmont Austin in the VIP Lounge. Plus, a portfolio of wines from The RSRV and non-alcoholic drinks for all the fun without of the after-effects.
Stay up to date on all things Tastemaker with our special editorial series of stories spotlighting the nominees.
Limited VIP passes remain, and it's obvious why they're such a hot ticket: Gain entry to the event a full hour early and get exclusive access to the VIP bar. General admission tickets are also available but are selling fast, so act now to secure your spot at Austin's most delicious night. We'll see you April 9!
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The CultureMap Tastemaker Awards ceremony is sponsored in Austin by Maker's Mark, Diplomático Rum, Fords Gin, Garrison at Fairmont Austin, Lone Star Beer, NXT LVL Event, Tequila Herradura, and more to be announced. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Central Texas Food Bank.
