Takoma Park Restaurant Nominated For 2017 RAMMY Awards

TAKOMA PARK, MD — The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington recently announced the list of DC area restaurants up for RAMMY awards this year, and a Takoma Park favorite made the list. Republic has been nominated for "Casual Brunch of the Year" and "Beer Program of the Year."

The RAMMY awards celebrate one of Metropolitan Washington's greatest assets: its restaurants. According to a statement, the awards honor "the exceptional ability and accomplishments of the hard-working individuals and organizations of the region’s restaurants and foodservice community."

The winners will be announced at the 35th Annual RAMMY Awards Gala on Sunday, July 30 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

The first category Republic is nominated for is "Casual Brunch of the Year." To be eligible for this award, the nominee must have been in operation for a minimum of one year as of December 31, 2016.

According to the criteria, "The nominee is a restaurant that demonstrates a dedication to dining excellence, service and value in a casual environment for brunch. Brunch may be offered as full-service, buffet, or prix fixe."

Republic is nominated, along with these DC restaurants: Cava Mezze - Capitol Hill, DGS Delicatessen in Dupont Circle, Maketto on H Street and Sixth Engine in Chinatown.

The next category Republic is nominated for is "Beer Program of the Year." The nominee must have been in operation for a minimum of one year as of December 31, 2016.

The description for this award is: "The establishment is distinguished by the quality, diversity, clarity and value of its beer program. Brewery restaurants and brew pubs are eligible for this category and will be judged based on the diversity and quality of their craft beer. The nominee continues to break new ground in education of its staff."

Nominees include: Republic; B Side in Fairfax, VA; District Commons in Foggy Bottom; Roofers Union in Adams Morgan and Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Dupont Circle.

Lastly, Noe Alfaro from Republic is nominated for Employee of the Year. These employees are "non-managerial front or back of the house employee who serves as a model employee by displaying outstanding service, an excellent work ethic and a positive image."

Other RAMMY categories include: Favorite Fast Bites of the Year, Cocktail Program of the Year, Wine Program of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Rising Culinary Star of the Year, Casual Restaurant of the Year, Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year, New Restaurant of the Year and more.

The public can vote for these restaurants online through May 31 at 5 p.m. Winners will be announced July 30 at a black tie gala.

See the full list of finalists and categories online.

Photo: Republic Facebook Page