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2025 FABI Award Winners: Celebrating Culinary Excellence

The National Restaurant Association has announced the recipients of the 2025 Food and Beverage (FABI) Awards, recognizing 39 outstanding innovations that are changing the landscape of culinary offerings. This year's awards spotlight products that not only enhance menus but also align with current consumer trends, including global flavors, clean ingredients, and plant-based alternatives.

FABI Awards Overview

The FABI Awards, a hallmark of the National Restaurant Association's Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show, aim to highlight products that substantially impact the foodservice industry. A panel of esteemed judges, including notable experts from brands like Wendy’s and Aramark, evaluated hundreds of submissions based on key factors such as taste, operational efficiency, profitability potential, and consumer appeal. These awards have become a beacon for showcasing culinary innovation in the restaurant sector.

This year, ten products received the distinguished title of 'FABI Favorites,' marking them as the most impactful offerings within the industry. With shifting consumer expectations towards sustainable and health-conscious options, these winners lead the charge in redefining the dining experience.

Highlights of the 2025 FABI Favorites

Among the winners, several products stood out due to their innovative use of ingredients and adherence to clean label standards:

• - Locatelli Crema di Cacio E Pepe - a sumptuous addition that elevates pasta dishes.
• - Wildbrine Spicy Kimchi Sriracha - an exciting fusion of flavors for adventurous palates.
• - Frozen Kumquat Puree 100% - perfect for cocktails or gourmet desserts.
• - Mochi Love's Creme Clouds - a delicious sweet treat pushing the boundaries of traditional desserts.
• - Plant-based Jalapeno and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Meatballs - catering to the growing demand for plant-based options.

Such selections underscore the industry’s pivot towards ingredients that not only taste good but are also perceived as healthier and ethically sourced.

The Trends Shaping the Future

Tom Cindric, President of Exhibitions for Informa Connect Foodservice, emphasized the importance of innovation in catering to evolving consumer tastes. "This year’s selections reflect how suppliers are creatively responding to key operator needs—menu versatility, sustainable sourcing, and products loved by consumers."

As restaurants adapt to the realities of a post-pandemic world, the importance of convenience, creative flavors, and sustainability has never been more pronounced. Products highlighted in this year’s FABI awards are designed with these dynamics in mind, ensuring that restaurant operators are equipped to meet the diverse and changing desires of their clientele.

Attend the National Restaurant Association Show

Foodservice professionals will have the chance to experience these award-winning innovations firsthand during the National Restaurant Association Show scheduled for May 17–20, 2025. Taking place at McCormick Place in Chicago, the event invites attendees to engage with these culinary standouts through tastings and demonstrations.

Special tastings, including dedicated sessions for the FABI awardees, will showcase the creativity and excellence recognized through this prestigious program. Feedback from chefs and diners alike will help drive these innovations further into the mainstream culinary scene.

Conclusion

The 2025 FABI Awards continue to serve as a vital platform for celebrating excellence in the food and beverage industry, highlighting trends that resonate with modern consumers. As the industry continues to evolve in response to dining expectations, these award-winning products offer a glimpse into the future of food and dining experiences. For more information on the FABI Awards and to register for the National Restaurant Association Show, visit nationalrestaurantshow.com. Connect with the event on social media platforms for ongoing updates and insights.

Through these awards, the National Restaurant Association not only honors excellence in culinary innovation but also inspires the next generation of culinary leaders, ensuring that restaurants can continue to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.