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`Meet the visionaries redefining excellence in hospitality`

Presented by 7shifts

See the 2025 Honorees

`BUILDING THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY`

The Restaurant Innovators 2025 is an awards program that celebrates the visionaries and dedicated teams who are redefining excellence in the hospitality industry. These awards recognize leaders who aren't just adapting to the future—they're building it!

The Ops Innovator

Recognizes leaders who implement creative technology and operational efficiencies to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance quality.

Weston Berchtold

Eli's Coffee Shop

Malyn Bartolome

Pochi Bubble Tea Cafe

Jon McBride

The Factory

Dan Lin

Nawa

KynnDra Harrison

Bahama Bucks

Josh Bishop

Fork & Fire, Wildfire Wings

Jason Frankot

Black Sheep Coffee

Arielle Mathisen

Central Social Hall

Weston Berchtold

Eli's Coffee Shop

Malyn Bartolome

Pochi Bubble Tea Cafe

Jon McBride

The Factory

Dan Lin

Nawa

KynnDra Harrison

Bahama Bucks

Josh Bishop

Fork & Fire, Wildfire Wings

Jason Frankot

Black Sheep Coffee

Arielle Mathisen

Central Social Hall

Weston Berchtold

Eli's Coffee Shop

Malyn Bartolome

Pochi Bubble Tea Cafe

Jon McBride

The Factory

Dan Lin

Nawa

Jason Frankot

Black Sheep Coffee

Arielle Mathisen

Central Social Hall

KynnDra Harrison

Bahama Bucks

Josh Bishop

Fork & Fire, Wildfire Wings

I am grateful to have been chosen for the Restaurant Innovators 2025 award. Anyone working in this industry knows we don't show up every day for praise or recognition. Food service can be a thankless job, so it is an honor to be recognized for our work in trying to provide great experiences for customers, care and support for our teams, and safe welcoming environments in our communities.
Weston Berchtold
Eli's Coffee Shop
“Fewer keystrokes.” has long been a mantra of mine. This refers to finding efficiencies to accomplish things in better time, so that we can provide more value through our actions. In a consumer environment where our guests are looking for more, quicker. I find this mindset paramount to the evolving restaurant industry. This award helps coalesce that commitment to hospitality as we work to increase our value as an industry.
Josh Bishop
Fork & Fire

I am grateful to have been chosen for the Restaurant Innovators 2025 award. Anyone working in this industry knows we don't show up every day for praise or recognition. Food service can be a thankless job, so it is an honor to be recognized for our work in trying to provide great experiences for customers, care and support for our teams, and safe welcoming environments in our communities.

Weston Berchtold

Eli's Coffee Shop

“Fewer keystrokes.” has long been a mantra of mine. This refers to finding efficiencies to accomplish things in better time, so that we can provide more value through our actions. In a consumer environment where our guests are looking for more, quicker. I find this mindset paramount to the evolving restaurant industry. This award helps coalesce that commitment to hospitality as we work to increase our value as an industry.

Josh Bishop

Fork & Fire

Winners:

The Industry Voice

Honors an individual or team (often rooted in media, podcasts, or digital platforms) who uses their platform and unique voice to educate, inspire, and drive positive conversation across the broader hospitality industry.

Shawn Walchef

Cali BBQ Media

Irene Li

Prepshift

Justin Khanna

Chef, Creator, Entrepreneur

Josh Kopel

Coach, Michelin-awarded restaurateur

Shawn Walchef

Cali BBQ Media

Irene Li

Prepshift

Justin Khanna

Chef, Creator, Entrepreneur

Josh Kopel

Coach, Michelin-awarded restaurateur

Shawn Walchef

Cali BBQ Media

Irene Li

Prepshift

Justin Khanna

Chef, Creator, Entrepreneur

Josh Kopel

Coach, Michelin-awarded restaurateur

“A rising tide lifts all ships, and I believe every restaurant owner is a storyteller at heart. Through our work at Cali BBQ Media, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when restaurant leaders stop waiting for PR and start owning their story. My hope is that this recognition inspires more operators to build media companies within their restaurants and share their authentic stories with the world.”
Shawn Walchef
Cali BBQ Media
I’m have the pleasure of speaking to the hungry and positive industry professionals who feel, to me, like they’re getting more thoughtful and connected every year. The experiences that they provide to guests and customers is inspiring for ME to watch - I always can’t wait to see what my audience does next, and I’m here to support them every step of the way!
Justin Khanna
Justin Khanna
I’m honored to be recognized as The Industry Voice by The Restaurant Innovators 2025. My work has always been about getting better, learning from the best, questioning what’s broken, and sharing what I discover along the way. FULL COMP was just the beginning and it pushed me to take what I’d learned and build something others could use. This recognition serves as a reminder that when we learn out loud, the entire industry rises with us.
Josh Kopel
Josh Kopel
I’m honored to receive this recognition on behalf of Prepshift’s work to help restaurants afford their values and execute on their dreams. We believe that in restaurants, everyone can win. When operators are supported and invested in, they provide value far beyond their restaurant’s doors. We’re working hard towards a sustainable future for independent restaurants and are so pleased to be recognized by 7shifts, who we know is truly aligned with our goals.
Irene Li
Prepshift

“A rising tide lifts all ships, and I believe every restaurant owner is a storyteller at heart. Through our work at Cali BBQ Media, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when restaurant leaders stop waiting for PR and start owning their story. My hope is that this recognition inspires more operators to build media companies within their restaurants and share their authentic stories with the world.”

Shawn Walchef

Cali BBQ Media

I’m have the pleasure of speaking to the hungry and positive industry professionals who feel, to me, like they’re getting more thoughtful and connected every year. The experiences that they provide to guests and customers is inspiring for ME to watch - I always can’t wait to see what my audience does next, and I’m here to support them every step of the way!

Justin Khanna

I’m honored to be recognized as The Industry Voice by The Restaurant Innovators 2025. My work has always been about getting better, learning from the best, questioning what’s broken, and sharing what I discover along the way. FULL COMP was just the beginning and it pushed me to take what I’d learned and build something others could use. This recognition serves as a reminder that when we learn out loud, the entire industry rises with us.

Josh Kopel

I’m honored to receive this recognition on behalf of Prepshift’s work to help restaurants afford their values and execute on their dreams. We believe that in restaurants, everyone can win. When operators are supported and invested in, they provide value far beyond their restaurant’s doors. We’re working hard towards a sustainable future for independent restaurants and are so pleased to be recognized by 7shifts, who we know is truly aligned with our goals.

Irene Li

Prepshift

Winners:

The Tip-Top Service Star

Celebrates individuals or teams (FOH) who consistently deliver outstanding, personalized, and memorable guest service, driving loyalty and word-of-mouth.

Aaron Benkman

Pounders Restaurant

Sheila

Sault Lock Tours

Julia Kramer

Brasa

Taylor Ouellette

Replay Brewing

Nikki Frost

The Casual Pint

Nitish Singh

Prestige Prince George Lodge

Sarah Marsden

The Factory

Ryan Wiedeman

Half Time Pizza

UVSS Catering and Conferences Team

UVSS Catering and Conferences

Tehya Johnson

Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill

Madi Royale

Pure Green Fulton Market

Aaron Benkman

Pounders Restaurant

Sheila

Sault Lock Tours

Julia Kramer

Brasa

Taylor Ouellette

Replay Brewing

Nikki Frost

The Casual Pint

Nitish Singh

Prestige Prince George Lodge

Sarah Marsden

The Factory

Ryan Wiedeman

Half Time Pizza

UVSS Catering and Conferences Team

UVSS Catering and Conferences

Tehya Johnson

Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill

Madi Royale

Pure Green Fulton Market

Jason

Black Sheep Coffee

Sheila

Sault Lock Tours

Julia Kramer

Brasa

Taylor Ouellette

Replay Brewing

Sarah Marsden

The Factory

Ryan Wiedeman

Half Time Pizza

UVSS Catering and Conferences Team

UVSS Catering and Conferences

Tehya Johnson

Tailgaters Sports Bar and Grill

Madi Royale

Pure Green Fulton Market

Nikki Frost

The Casual Pint

Nitish Singh

Prestige Prince George Lodge

“Winning this award reaffirms my belief that the future of hospitality is built on innovation, integrity, and community. It validates every effort to create a workplace culture where people feel empowered to grow, contribute, and care—both for each other and for the guests we serve.”
UVSS Catering and Conferences Team
University of Victoria
“Winning this award is more than recognition – it is validation of my unwavering commitment to the future of hospitality. It reinforces the belief that innovation, a strong and supportive workplace culture, and meaningful community impact aren’t just goals, but the standards we choose to lead with every day.”
Sarah Marsden
The Factory
Cooking lets me turn simple ingredients into something meaningful, and that’s what I love most about this work. Every meal has the power to bring comfort, joy, or energy to someone who needs it. This award reminds me why I push myself to improve every day—because the effort I put in can create a positive, memorable experience for
Nitish Singh
Prestige Prince George Lodge

“Winning this award reaffirms my belief that the future of hospitality is built on innovation, integrity, and community. It validates every effort to create a workplace culture where people feel empowered to grow, contribute, and care—both for each other and for the guests we serve.”

UVSS Catering and Conferences Team

University of Victoria

“Winning this award is more than recognition – it is validation of my unwavering commitment to the future of hospitality. It reinforces the belief that innovation, a strong and supportive workplace culture, and meaningful community impact aren’t just goals, but the standards we choose to lead with every day.”

Sarah Marsden

The Factory

Cooking lets me turn simple ingredients into something meaningful, and that’s what I love most about this work. Every meal has the power to bring comfort, joy, or energy to someone who needs it. This award reminds me why I push myself to improve every day—because the effort I put in can create a positive, memorable experience for

Nitish Singh

Prestige Prince George Lodge

Winners:

The Unsung Hero

Recognizes exceptional back-of-house (BOH) leadership in the kitchen, focusing on menu development, consistency, safety, and maintaining efficiency under pressure.

Sandy Adams

The Casual Pint

Emma Robison

Eli's Coffee Shop

Jason Willis

SSA Group

Nick Zocco

Urban Hill

Raymund Pada

XIX Nineteen

Sandy Adams

The Casual Pint

Emma Robison

Eli's Coffee Shop

Jason Willis

SSA Group

Nick Zocco

Urban Hill

Raymund Pada

XIX Nineteen

Sandy Adams

The Casual Pint

Emma Robison

Eli's Coffee Shop

Jason Willis

SSA Group

Nick Zocco

Urban Hill

Raymund Pada

XIX Nineteen

This truly means a lot to me to be recognized by my direct boss and owner of Urban Hill and Hill Top Hospitality. I am grateful for the continued support from my teams and colleagues pushing me to be the best. Each day I strive to mentor my young team and create a culture of respect and accountability. I expect each individual to set themselves to a high standard, learn from one another, and to excel at the passion of cooking.

Nick Zocco

Urban Hill

The Best Boss Ever
Winner
The Best Boss Ever
Winner
The Best Boss Ever
Winner

Winner
The Best Boss Ever
Winner
The Best Boss Ever
Winner
The Best Boss Ever

An award for a manager or owner who demonstrates exceptional commitment to staff growth, well-being, training, and retention, making the restaurant a top place to work.

Brittany Rupert

The Human Bean of Spokane

Chris Gurrie

Vue Rooftop

Jessie Love

Grain & Grog

Jake Lonie

Fernie Taphouse

Jason Leeds

Chelsea Hospitality Group

Antonette Palacios

V Pizza

Haley Armitage

Eli's Coffee Shop

Nick Lalli

Vittoria

Dakotah Pompura

Jeremiah's Italian Ice

Brandon O'Donnell

Mad Dogs & Englishmen

Megan Yaffey

Pure Green

Dave Garcia

Halftime Pizza

Brittany Rupert

The Human Bean of Spokane

Chris Gurrie

Vue Rooftop

Jessie Love

Grain & Grog

Jake Lonie

Fernie Taphouse

Jason Leeds

Chelsea Hospitality Group

Antonette Palacios

V Pizza

Haley Armitage

Eli's Coffee Shop

Nick Lalli

Vittoria

Dakotah Pompura

Jeremiah's Italian Ice

Brandon O'Donnell

Mad Dogs & Englishmen

Megan Yaffey

Pure Green

Dave Garcia

Halftime Pizza

Brittany Rupert

The Human Bean of Spokane

Chris Gurrie

Vue Rooftop

Haley Armitage

Eli's Coffee Shop

Nick Lalli

Vittoria

Jessie Love

Grain & Grog

Jake Lonie

Fernie Taphouse

Dakotah Pompura

Jeremiah's Italian Ice

Brandon O'Donnell

Mad Dogs & Englishmen

Megan Yaffey

Pure Green

Dave Garcia

Halftime Pizza

Jason Leeds

Chelsea Hospitality Group

Antonette Palacios

V Pizza

To be acknowledged as a restaurant innovator is an incredible honor. Working in hospitality has consistently allowed me to connect with people, share in their celebrations, and build genuine relationships. Through training, I’m grateful for the chance to equip franchise owners and managers to lead with confidence and heart. This recognition affirms that the passion, effort, and time invested truly matter. I’m honored and deeply grateful for this appreciation!
Dakotah Pompura
Jeremiah's Italian Ice
"We believe hospitality has the power to inspire human connection and unlock the limitless potential of communities. I’m more convinced than ever that the work we do—to innovate, to elevate, to bring people together—has never been more important than it is right now. Long live hospitality!"
Jason Leeds
Chelsea Hospitality
Winning this award is more than a personal milestone—it affirms my commitment to shaping the future of hospitality through innovation, service, and a culture where people feel inspired to excel. It validates the long hours, the risks taken, and the belief that meaningful impact begins with genuine care for both guests and team members. This recognition strengthens my dedication to building communities and workplaces where excellence, creativity, and human connection continually thrive.
Nick Lalli
Megan Yaffey
Pure Green
Winning this award is an incredible honor that validates my commitment to the future of hospitality. It reflects my dedication to innovation, elevating guest experiences, and building a strong, supportive workplace culture where teams can thrive. Most importantly, it reinforces the impact we strive to make within our community—creating connections, supporting local families, and shaping a place where everyone feels welcome. This recognition inspires me to continue pushing our industry forward.
Dave Garcia
Halftime Pizza

To be acknowledged as a restaurant innovator is an incredible honor. Working in hospitality has consistently allowed me to connect with people, share in their celebrations, and build genuine relationships. Through training, I’m grateful for the chance to equip franchise owners and managers to lead with confidence and heart. This recognition affirms that the passion, effort, and time invested truly matter. I’m honored and deeply grateful for this appreciation!

Dakotah Pompura

Jeremiah's Italian Ice

"We believe hospitality has the power to inspire human connection and unlock the limitless potential of communities. I’m more convinced than ever that the work we do—to innovate, to elevate, to bring people together—has never been more important than it is right now. Long live hospitality!"

Jason Leeds

Chelsea Hospitality

Winning this award is more than a personal milestone—it affirms my commitment to shaping the future of hospitality through innovation, service, and a culture where people feel inspired to excel. It validates the long hours, the risks taken, and the belief that meaningful impact begins with genuine care for both guests and team members. This recognition strengthens my dedication to building communities and workplaces where excellence, creativity, and human connection continually thrive.

Nick Lalli

Megan Yaffey

Pure Green

Winning this award is an incredible honor that validates my commitment to the future of hospitality. It reflects my dedication to innovation, elevating guest experiences, and building a strong, supportive workplace culture where teams can thrive. Most importantly, it reinforces the impact we strive to make within our community—creating connections, supporting local families, and shaping a place where everyone feels welcome. This recognition inspires me to continue pushing our industry forward.

Dave Garcia

Halftime Pizza

Winners:

The Culture Catalyst

Honors an individual that helped foster high employee satisfaction and retention through outstanding communication, supportive team dynamics, and a demonstrably positive daily work environment.

Kelsey Roeder

Saluhall

Keith Priestley

Georgian Bowl

Yahaira Jimenez

Turner's Cut

Ashley Jones

XIX Nineteen

Sarah Ballard

Bedford Village Inn

Kaydance Zgarba

All 'bout That Cheese

Isabelle Koma

Golfplay

Lydia Pfister

Elis Coffee

"Winning the Restaurant Innovator Award from 7shifts is an incredible honor and affirmation of what we’re building at Saluhall — a food hall where people, planet, and purpose come first. This recognition celebrates not just innovation in operations, but in culture — creating a workplace rooted in growth, respect, and joy. I’m proud to be part of a team proving that hospitality can nourish both our communities and the future of sustainable dining."

Kelsey Roeder

Saluhall

Winning this award is just a bonus — what truly matters is seeing my team feel seen, valued, and celebrated! From handmade Valentine’s bracelets to Christmas newsletters, silly crosswords, and holiday surprises, I strive to make every day a little brighter for the people who make the magic of hospitality happen. If my team leaves the back door smiling, then I know I’ve done my job.

Ashley Jones

XIX Nineteen

Winners:

The Culture Catalyst

Honors an individual that helped foster high employee satisfaction and retention through outstanding communication, supportive team dynamics, and a demonstrably positive daily work environment.

Kelsey Roeder

Saluhall

Keith Priestley

Georgian Bowl

Yahaira Jimenez

Turner's Cut

Ashley Jones

XIX Nineteen

Sarah Ballard

Bedford Village Inn

Kaydance Zgarba

All 'bout That Cheese

Isabelle Koma

Golfplay

Lydia Pfister

Elis Coffee

"Winning the Restaurant Innovator Award from 7shifts is an incredible honor and affirmation of what we’re building at Saluhall — a food hall where people, planet, and purpose come first. This recognition celebrates not just innovation in operations, but in culture — creating a workplace rooted in growth, respect, and joy. I’m proud to be part of a team proving that hospitality can nourish both our communities and the future of sustainable dining."

Kelsey Roeder

Saluhall

Winning this award is just a bonus — what truly matters is seeing my team feel seen, valued, and celebrated! From handmade Valentine’s bracelets to Christmas newsletters, silly crosswords, and holiday surprises, I strive to make every day a little brighter for the people who make the magic of hospitality happen. If my team leaves the back door smiling, then I know I’ve done my job.

Ashley Jones

XIX Nineteen

Winners:

The Culture Catalyst

Honors an individual that helped foster high employee satisfaction and retention through outstanding communication, supportive team dynamics, and a demonstrably positive daily work environment.

Kelsey Roeder

Saluhall

Keith Priestley

Georgian Bowl

Yahaira Jimenez

Turner's Cut

Ashley Jones

XIX Nineteen

Sarah Ballard

Bedford Village Inn

Kaydance Zgarba

All 'bout That Cheese

Isabelle Koma

Golfplay

Lydia Pfister

Elis Coffee

"Winning the Restaurant Innovator Award from 7shifts is an incredible honor and affirmation of what we’re building at Saluhall — a food hall where people, planet, and purpose come first. This recognition celebrates not just innovation in operations, but in culture — creating a workplace rooted in growth, respect, and joy. I’m proud to be part of a team proving that hospitality can nourish both our communities and the future of sustainable dining."
Kelsey Roeder
Saluhall
Winning this award is just a bonus — what truly matters is seeing my team feel seen, valued, and celebrated! From handmade Valentine’s bracelets to Christmas newsletters, silly crosswords, and holiday surprises, I strive to make every day a little brighter for the people who make the magic of hospitality happen. If my team leaves the back door smiling, then I know I’ve done my job.
Ashley Jones
XIX Nineteen

Winners:

The Local Legend

Specifically for independent single-unit restaurants that demonstrate incredible quality, financial resilience, and deep community roots despite stiff competition.

Larry Abel

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Andrew Fung

JUU KU

Pablo Gil

Bennu

Daniel Flores

GYM Bar WeHo

Kenny Nguyen

Pretty Boy

Andy Yuen

Odd Couple

Larry Abel

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Andrew Fung

JUU KU

Pablo Gil

Bennu

Daniel Flores

GYM Bar WeHo

Kenny Nguyen

Pretty Boy

Andy Yuen

Odd Couple

Larry Abel

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Andrew Fung

JUU KU

Pablo Gil

Bennu

Daniel Flores

GYM Bar WeHo

Working at the Gristmill is still exciting and fun even after 25 years. I’ve been surrounded by a wonderful team that is always willing to learn and do whatever it takes to get the job done. It takes an entire team firing on all cylinders to achieve the “Texas Hospitality” we strive for every day, and we truly go above and beyond for every customer.

I believe it all starts with the management team—leaders who never ask employees to do a task they wouldn’t do themselves. At the end of the day, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the success of the staff, not just in a monetary sense, but in the development of work ethic and personal growth.
Larry Abel
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
Very grateful to have this award from 7 Shifts! One of the main underlying reason for me to become a restauranteur is to do my small part to evolve Asian restaurant scene in Saskatoon in combining service, atmosphere, local ingredients and Asian flavours together, try to do things a bit differently than what my uncle and my dad did in their era. Hopefully we get to keep pushing the envelope and improve in what we can provide.
Andy Yuen
Odd Couple
For us, true innovation is human; a restaurant´s heart beats because of its people. We have built a space where talent flourishes and grows, creating unforgettable experiences and allowing us to give back to our community. Our mission goes beyond the plate, serving with purpose and generosity so every guest leaves happier than when they arrived. This award is a tribute to the art of transforming our surroundings through small actions and strengthening bonds.
Pablo Gil
Bennu

Working at the Gristmill is still exciting and fun even after 25 years. I’ve been surrounded by a wonderful team that is always willing to learn and do whatever it takes to get the job done. It takes an entire team firing on all cylinders to achieve the “Texas Hospitality” we strive for every day, and we truly go above and beyond for every customer.

I believe it all starts with the management team—leaders who never ask employees to do a task they wouldn’t do themselves. At the end of the day, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the success of the staff, not just in a monetary sense, but in the development of work ethic and personal growth.

Larry Abel

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Very grateful to have this award from 7 Shifts! One of the main underlying reason for me to become a restauranteur is to do my small part to evolve Asian restaurant scene in Saskatoon in combining service, atmosphere, local ingredients and Asian flavours together, try to do things a bit differently than what my uncle and my dad did in their era. Hopefully we get to keep pushing the envelope and improve in what we can provide.

Andy Yuen

Odd Couple

For us, true innovation is human; a restaurant´s heart beats because of its people. We have built a space where talent flourishes and grows, creating unforgettable experiences and allowing us to give back to our community. Our mission goes beyond the plate, serving with purpose and generosity so every guest leaves happier than when they arrived. This award is a tribute to the art of transforming our surroundings through small actions and strengthening bonds.

Pablo Gil

Bennu

Winners:

The Empire Builder

Recognizes a leader at a multi-unit operation who has successfully managed rapid scaling, maintained brand consistency, and expertly handled complexity across multiple locations.