Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) has officially announced the National Finalists for the prestigious 2026 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence.

The National Finalists represent the culmination of the Hostplus Awards for Excellence, awarded to world-class hospitality operators from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra and Darwin, including regional centres whose operators have already been acknowledged as the best in their State or Territory.

Winners from more than 30 categories will be awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze, alongside the Major Awards: Caterer of the Year, Casual Dining of the Year and the prestigious Restaurant of the Year. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner on 26 October at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, Sydney.

R&CA National President, John Hart, OAM, congratulated each of the finalists for their commitment to excellence and dedication to the industry:

“From wineries, destination dining and coastal hot spots to local, family-run establishments, every finalist on this list should feel incredibly proud. Reaching the national stage is an extraordinary achievement.”

“With operators representing the entire length of the country, from Dampier to Port Douglas, Pokolbin to Paddington, Daylesford to Yulara and beyond, our finalists represent Australia’s dynamic, diverse and competitive dining scene.”

The Hostplus Awards for Excellence is the industry’s leading awards program, judged by independent professionals against defined operational criteria. Restaurants are evaluated on food, service and presentation, while caterers are assessed on operations, staffing, event execution and client delivery.

Mr Hart, OAM, added:

“To every single one of this year’s finalists: congratulations. Your immense dedication and vision represents the very best of Australian hospitality operators. Reaching the national finalist stage is a testament to the standard of your excellence and I look forward to raising a glass with you all at the National Gala celebration.”

IS YOUR LOCAL ON THE LIST?

For the full list of National Finalists, click HERE