The New Mexico Restaurant Association (NMRA) announced its 2026 Hospitality Industry Awards nominees on September 8, highlighting a strong showing from Las Cruces. The awards, set for September 21 at the historic Route 66 Casino and Hotel, recognize the grit, character and creativity of those who keep New Mexico’s food and beverage sector thriving.
Why the awards matter to Las Cruces
NMRA’s mission is to drive prosperity across the state’s food and beverage industry. With more than 1,500 members in 111 cities, the association sees a thriving hospitality sector as a cornerstone of local jobs, community vitality and economic growth. The 2026 ceremony also marks the organization’s 80th anniversary, the centennial of Route 66 and the retirement of long‑time CEO Carol Wright.
Local nominees
Las Cruces earned a notable presence on the nominee lists, including:
- Chef of the Year: J Martin T. (Pazzi Ristorante Italiano), Anthony N. (The Valley Café), Kiko R. (Ten Thousand Waves), Mathew W. (Picacho Hills Country Club) and several others.
- Manager of the Year: Anthony N. (The Valley Café), Francisco P. (Sazón), April V. (Steel Bender) and a range of leaders from venues such as the Las Cruces Convention Center and Isleta Resort & Casino.
- Restaurateur of the Year: Lee C. (Cantina Hospitality Group), Sam G. (Los Hermanitos), Dana K. (Kaktus Brewery) and many more owners representing everything from pizzerias to breweries.
- Community Service Award: Terry T. (Si Señor), Anthony N. (The Valley Café), Maria G. (La Salsa) and other establishments noted for giving back.
- Faces of Diversity: Angela W. (Hello Deli), Summer W. (66 Diner) and additional nominees showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region’s culinary scene.
Impact on the local economy
These nominations underscore the role of Las Cruces’ eateries in creating jobs and attracting visitors. When restaurants and hotels thrive, they generate tax revenue that supports schools, infrastructure and community programs—key goals of both NMRA and local leaders who champion family‑friendly economic development.
How to attend
The awards ceremony will be held at the Route 66 Casino and Hotel on September 21, 2026. Tickets and additional information are available on the NMRA website. Residents are encouraged to support their local nominees and celebrate the industry’s contributions to the city’s quality of life.
About the reporter
Leighanne Muñoz, a business and development reporter for the Las Cruces Sun‑News, contributed this story. She is a fellow with the New Mexico Local News Fellowships and Internships Program.
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
