Celebrate the Winners of
The Lewisham Awards 2026
The Lewisham Awards have once again recognised the people, venues and businesses shaping Auckland's vibrant hospitality scene. Held on 31 May 2026 at Shed 10, the Awards brought together industry leaders, rising talent and hospitality icons for a night dedicated to excellence across Tāmaki Makaurau.
From neighbourhood favourites and innovative producers to outstanding chefs, bartenders and front-of-house professionals, this year's winners represent the very best of Auckland hospitality. Explore the winners, finalists and highlights from an unforgettable evening celebrating the people who continue to raise the bar for our industry.
2026 Awards Highlights
Recognising the Best of Auckland Hospitality
The 2026 Lewisham Awards recognised excellence across 19 categories, celebrating the people and businesses driving Auckland hospitality forward.
Among the night's standout winners was Gilt, where Glen File was named Outstanding Chef, Justin Ydia won Outstanding Bartender, and the restaurant secured Outstanding Wine Experience.
Panacea also enjoyed a successful evening, with Ryan Oliver recognised as Outstanding Front of House and Dany Dentith named Outstanding Hospitality Hero.
Sawmill Brewery also enjoyed a successful evening, with Logan Richmond recognised for Outstanding Sales Experience and the brewery awarded Outstanding Beer Experience.
Theo Tjandra and Truth or Dare were recognised for Outstanding Cocktail Experience, while innovative drinks producer Project Hydrosol won Innovation and Sustainability.
In its 40th year, beloved Ponsonby institution Prego became the most awarded venue in Lewisham Awards history, taking home Outstanding Local Establishment Central and its 18th Lewisham Award overall.
The evening also honoured three hospitality pioneers with Lifetime Achievement Awards, Connie Clarkson, David Meagher and Chris Upton, recognising their enduring contribution to Auckland's hospitality industry and more than two decades of gifted service to Lewisham Awards.
Message from the Chair
Hospitality sits at the heart of Auckland. It’s powered by people who turn up every day with skill, care and pride in what they do.
The Lewisham Awards shine a spotlight on Auckland’s hospitality icons, recognising the people behind it, as chosen by those who know it best: their peers.
They celebrate the individuals and teams raising the standard across our food and hospitality scene, and the role they play in shaping the life of our city.
At its core, this is about people. The stars who bring passion to every service, every dish and every guest experience. This is our chance to give back to those who make our industry outstanding and say thanks.
Daniel Sullivan
Message from one of our sponsors
As a supplier to the hospitality industry, I believe it’s incredibly important to give back to the community that support me and my business.
There’s no better way of showing my appreciation than contributing to the Lewisham Awards as a Category Sponsor and do what I can help to make it an exceptional night.
Angie Atkinson, Blanc
