Three Sunshine Coast restaurants are national finalists in the hospitality industry’s leading awards program.
Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) announced the shortlist for the 2026 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence earlier this month.
Topping the list is ēthos at Alsahwa Estate, Palmwoods, which is a contender in the new restaurant category.
Fellow hinterland restaurants, The Tamarind at Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Maleny is vying for the Asian restaurant award and Ricks Garage Bar & Diner, Palmwoods is up for the family dining award.
General manager of Alsahwa Estate, Michelle Clark said the team was extremely proud and humbled to be nominated.
“Being new to the restaurant Sunshine Coast food tourism, we are excited to be acknowledged amongst other Sunshine Coast business,” Ms Clark said.
“Our team has worked very hard to achieve recognisable milestones in such a short period of time.
“We lead with the passion of our farm-to-plate philosophy and our mission of ‘rooted in purpose, designed for connection, made to be shared’.”
The three restaurants progressed to the national awards after winning their respective South-East Queensland categories at the Queensland and Northern Territory awards in July.
National winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Sydney on October 26.
The program includes more than 30 categories as well as major awards including Caterer of the Year, Casual Dining of the Year and Restaurant of the Year.
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R&CA national president John Hart OAM congratulated the finalists.
“To every single one of this year’s finalists: congratulations,” Mr Hart said.
“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.”
The awards are independently judged, with restaurants assessed on the overall dining experience.
