The winner of each of the 12 categories of the inaugural Remarkable Awards was announced by organiser the Restaurant Association of New Zealand to the cheers of about 250 industry staff, at the ticketed gala at the Queenstown Memorial Hall.
Hospitality industry workers, owners, chefs, waiters, bartenders, baristas and suppliers nominated, then voted online to strict criteria for the people they recognised as the most outstanding in their field, over the past two months.
Restaurant Association chief executive Steve Mackenzie, of Auckland, said in a statement the Remarkable Awards would get a name for themselves, not only within the industry, but in the public's eyes as well.
"People like the fact that the people in the know are putting their stamp of approval on particular places to eat, drink or socialise. We are delighted with the reaction."
Mr Mackenzie said gaining recognition for the glamorous and some not so glamorous jobs in the industry made it all worthwhile for staff.
Profits from the awards ceremony will be donated to help hospitality industry workers in Christchurch through the association's branch in the city.
Remarkably good
Winners of the 2010 Remarkable Awards:
Outstanding Chef: Ben Batterbury, True South Dining Room at the Rees Hotel.
Outstanding Maitre D: Mark Godden, Fishbone Bar & Grill.
Outstanding Waiter: Teo Sel, Wai Waterfront Restaurant.
Outstanding Bartender: Jason Clark, Debajo.
Outstanding Barista: Mika Sugano, Vudu Café and Larder.
Outstanding Supplier: Beaver Liquor.
Outstanding Restaurant Food: Kappa.
Outstanding Restaurant: Botswana Butchery Queenstown.
Outstanding Winery: Gibbston Valley.
Outstanding Bar: Atlas Beer CaféOutstanding Wine List: Eichardt's House Bar.
Outstanding Hospitality Personality: Paul Tudgay, Queenstown Resort College.
