Restaurateurs
Owners & Chefs
Welcome to DiRōNA
Since 1990, North America’s most prestigious organization has been dedicated to celebrating the finest restaurateurs and chefs. Being a part of the Distinguished Restaurants of North America means joining an exclusive community of exceptional culinary leaders and gaining global recognition for your restaurant’s commitment to excellence. Members enjoy opportunities for networking and the privilege of displaying the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, which signals to discerning diners worldwide the superior standards of your establishment. Additionally, your staff can access educational opportunities through scholarships, fostering growth and talent within your team. Embrace the distinction that comes with being a part of DiRōNA and share your culinary achievements with the world.
The Four Pillars a DiRōNA Awarded Restaurant
Culinary
Beverage
Wine and cocktails play a pivotal role in DiRōNA’s dedication to celebrating outstanding dining experiences, as they are essential in elevating a meal from satisfying to truly memorable. A carefully curated wine list and expertly crafted cocktails complement the flavors of each dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. For a restaurant to earn the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, it must demonstrate a thoughtful approach to its beverage program—one that balances innovation, depth, and an understanding of pairing. Whether through rare vintages, signature cocktails, or a selection that perfectly reflects the restaurant’s style, these beverages contribute to the refined, elevated atmosphere DiRōNA seeks to honor. The ability to craft an experience that integrates exceptional cuisine with equally impressive wine and cocktails is a hallmark of the finest dining establishments, and it’s a key criterion for this prestigious recognition.
Service
Service is a cornerstone of DiRōNA’s mission to recognize and celebrate the best in fine dining. Exceptional service elevates the entire dining experience, transforming a meal into a memorable occasion. For a restaurant to receive the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, it must demonstrate a commitment to providing attentive, knowledgeable, and welcoming service that aligns with the high standards expected in North America’s finest dining establishments. Great service ensures that every guest feels valued and well cared for, creating an environment where diners can relax and enjoy the culinary and beverage offerings to their fullest. It is this dedication to hospitality that sets DiRōNA-awarded restaurants apart, offering a level of care that discerning diners expect and appreciate.
Ambiance
Why Apply For The DiRōNA Award of Excellence
At DiRōNA, we proudly recognize the dedication, hard-work, and excellence that set exceptional restaurants apart. Our award is not just a symbol of success—it’s your pathway to:
- Increase Restaurant Exposure
- Attract Discerning Diners
- Join our DiRōNA Community
Your commitment to exceptional dining is what makes your restaurant stand out. DiRōNA celebrates this dedication, placing you among the best in the culinary world.
We understand that running a successful restaurant is about more than just food. It’s about creating unforgettable moments, offering impeccable service, and maintaining the highest standards.
For over three decades, the DiRōNA award has been the authority in exceptional dining, honoring restaurants that exemplify culinary mastery, outstanding hospitality, and an unfortgetable experience.
Apply for the DiRōNA Award of Excellence
Applying for the DiRōNA Award of Excellence offers restaurant owners, chefs, and managers the opportunity to gain recognition among North America’s most distinguished dining establishments. This prestigious award sets your restaurant apart by showcasing your commitment to culinary excellence, ambiance, and top-tier service. As a DiRōNA recipient, you gain valuable exposure through listings on our website and mobile app, as well as mentions across our social media platforms. This visibility helps attract new guests and elevate your reputation within the dining community. Plus, being part of the DiRōNA network connects you with fellow industry leaders and provides access to exclusive events, all contributing to your restaurant’s growth and continued success.
Nominate for the DiRōNA Hall of Fame
Testimonials
Ted Balestreri - The Sardine Factory, Monterey, CA
DiRōNA is very important to keep fine dining alive, to give restaurateurs encouragement to keep that high standard of dining. DiRōNA is that vehicle right now.
Chef Kasey Kaplan - Cafe Central, El Paso, TX
I have tremendous respect for DiRōNA. To be one of the top restaurants with DiRōNA, it’s an incredible honor for us, we couldn’t be more humble by it.
Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr - Jasper’s, Kansas City, MO
We’ve made so many friendships through DiRōNA that we even carry them on today. DiRōNA holds a very special place in the hearts of the Mirabile family.
Chef Bert Cutino - The Sardine Factory, Monterey, CA
An award program where you get a chance to meet other winners over the years. I would’ve never met these people, Chefs from all over the country and all around the world. That’s what DiRōNA does.
DiRōNA News
DiRōNA’s Commitment to the Future of Exceptional Dining: Celebrating Seven Scholarship Recipients in 2024
DiRōNA's Commitment to the Future of Exceptional Dining: Celebrating Seven Scholarship Recipients in 2024 At DiRōNA, we believe that the future of exceptional dining experiences lies in the hands of passionate, skilled, and creative individuals. This year, we are...
Passing of DiRōNA Hall of Fame member Charles “Chick” Marshall
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles "Chick" Marshall on May 24, 2024, at the age of 88 in Orange, CA. The hospitality industry was always a significant part of Charles’ life. Raised in his family’s seashore resort hotel and restaurant...
Distinguished Restaurants of North America ‘Gold’ Award of Excellence Recipients Announced
Distinguished Restaurants of North America ‘Gold’ Award of Excellence Recipients Announced Sixteen restaurants across North America receive the elite DiRōNA gold award during its inaugural year NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y., February 15, 2024 ⎯ The Distinguished...