RAMMY Awards finalists: What's new and surprising

What's new: The 20 award categories are either voted on by the public (e.g. Best Brunch, Best Bar) or a panel of judges made up of anonymous industry experts. For the first time, the Best Fast Casual honor will be awarded by judges — meant to indicate "their elevated stature in the industry," per the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington.

• Finalists include popular spots like taco joint La Tejana and Yellow pita shop, as well as newcomers like Emma's Torch, a pioneering Woodridge cafe that trains refugees and asylum seekers in culinary arts (and also makes a tasty egg and cheese biscuit).

And of course, best new restaurants! Up in that category are:

• Ama (Italian, Navy Yard)
• La' Shukran (Middle Eastern, Union Market)
• Kayu (Filipino, H Street)
• Pascual (Mexican, Capitol Hill)
• San Pancho (Amaze burritos, Takoma Park)

Between the lines: Darlings of the award circuit are well-represented, like Shaw's plant-based tasting room Mita — up in three RAMMY categories (Formal Fine Dining, Service, Rising Culinary Stars) and a 2025 James Beard Award. You'll also find award-magnets Moon Rabbit, Causa, Anju, and more.

• But you'll find some first-time RAMMY finalists, like Zena Polin's charming Beauty Champagne & Sugar Boutique in Arlington (Best Wine Program).

The intrigue: While the RAMMYs are a hyper-local affair, there's a notable out-of-town name in the mix: Philadelphia's Stephen Starr, up for Restaurateur of the Year.

• Though one could argue that after a few multi-million dollar smash hits (e.g. Le Diplomate, Osteria Mozza), he's one of us.

What's next: Winners will be announced at a gala on August 3. See the full list of finalists here.