New Mexico Restaurant Association

09/24/2026

Restaurant operators need clear, consistent rules that make it easier to serve guests and run their businesses. The House has already passed the Common Cents Act, which would establish nationwide standards for rounding cash transactions and provide greater clarity for both businesses and consumers. Now, the Senate needs to hear from restaurant operators. Take two minutes to contact your Senators and urge them to pass the Common Cents Act. A quick message from you can help make sure the restaurant industry’s perspective is part of the conversation and push this important legislation forward.

National Restaurant Association

09/24/2026

The New Mexico Restaurant Association is proud to recognize Joey Fernandez, Food & Beverage Manager at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, as this year’s Manager of the Year. Known for his steady leadership and deep commitment to service, Fernandez oversees one of the most unique and high‑volume food operations in the state—feeding thousands of scouts, staff, and visitors throughout the season. His approach blends structure, mentorship, and calm under pressure, creating a workplace where young team members learn, grow, and take pride in their work.
https://www.nmrestaurants.org/2026-hospitality-industry-awards/

09/23/2026

New Mexico’s iconic green chile is facing a significant supply drop this season, with growers reporting a 20% to 50% shortfall tied to prolonged heat and difficult growing conditions. As the state responsible for roughly 77% of the nation’s chile production, the impact is being felt across farms, kitchens, and tourism alike. The New Mexico Chile Association and industry partners continue to monitor the season closely, underscoring how essential this crop is to local cuisine, statewide identity, and the businesses that rely on it.

New Mexico green chile production faces a significant shortfall this season due to adverse weather conditions.

09/23/2026

Honoring culinary excellence and mentorship, the NMRA proudly recognizes Chef Brendan Gochenour, Chef at Inn of the Mountain Gods , as the 2026 Chef of the Year. With more than two decades of culinary experience, Gochenour has built a career defined by skill, service, and a commitment to lifting others. His kitchens thrive under a philosophy rooted in generosity and growth—shaped in part by his long-standing community work with the White Apron Society, where he has helped empower chefs to use their talents for the greater good. Gochenour’s approach blends discipline, creativity, and mentorship, inspiring young culinarians while elevating the dining experience at one of the state’s most iconic destinations. https://www.nmrestaurants.org/2026-hospitality-industry-awards/

09/22/2026

The National Restaurant Association is gearing up to present a dynamic session on preventing foodborne illness outbreaks, created in partnership with Ecolab. This upcoming webinar will break down the real factors that drive food safety failures inside foodservice operations — from patterns seen in inspections to lessons pulled from actual outbreaks — and translate them into practical, high‑impact strategies operators can use right away. Attendees can expect clear, actionable guidance designed to surface risks earlier, strengthen prevention efforts, and elevate overall operational performance across every part of their operation.
https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/5466416/C118138F09AC142DB230110F8C1C0B50

09/22/2026

NMRA is thrilled to celebrate the 2026 Hospitality Industry Awards winners—an extraordinary lineup of leaders, innovators, and community champions who elevate New Mexico hospitality every day. Meet Manager of the Year Joey Fernandez of Philmont Scout Ranch , Chef of the Year Chef Brendan Gochenour of Inn of the Mountain Gods , Restaurateur of the Year George Gundrey of Tomasita's and Atrisco Cafe & Bar , Community Service Award honoree Janice Argabright of the The Original Owl Bar & Cafe , Faces of Diversity recipient Jeremiah Richardson of Proofed Bread Company, Industry Champion Bill Focke of Ben E. Keith Foods , and Lifetime Achievement Award winner Ed Linderman of Butter Smith Kitchen & Pies , Village Inn Pancake House, and Corner Bakery Café. Their impact is felt statewide—explore their stories and join the celebration on the full awards page.

Follow NMRA on Social Media...

09/21/2026

The 2026 Hospitality Industry Awards are TODAY at Route 66 Casino & Hotel. NMRA offices will be closed for the day as we prepare for the celebration.

09/19/2026

Vision. Grit. Unshakable hospitality. Meet your 2026 Restaurateur of the Year nominees—leaders who’ve built more than restaurants; they’ve built community. From iconic institutions to bold new ventures, these changemakers define what it means to serve with heart. See you at the 2026 Hospitality Industry Awards and we will find out who wins!
Lee C. - Cantina Hospitality Group
Sam G. - Los Hermanitos Del Oeste
Dana K. - Kaktus Brewing Company Inc.
Melanie S. - Cattle Baron Restaurant Inc. Las Cruces
George G. - Tomasita's & Atrisco Cafe & Bar
Sylvia S. - Arrey Cafe
Jose V. - El Toro Bravo Restaurant (Mexican Food)
Nicole K. - Dorothea Fine Greek/Meraki
Robert D. - Pelican's Restaurant Albuquerque
Rubin V. - Zeffiro's Pizzeria Downtown
Ed & Jess K. - Grass Burger
Ken C. - Nexus Brewery
Tomas R. - Burrito Express
Ernie S. - Buckhorn Tavern
Henrique V. - Herencia
Patrick & Kelly T. - Blackbird Saloon
Kendra E. - Grounded
Marie C. - Church Street Cafe
Marina A. - Ardovino's Desert Crossing

09/18/2026

These culinary trailblazers don’t just cook—they craft experiences. Introducing your 2026 Chef of the Year nominees: the bold, the brilliant, the flavor-obsessed artists behind New Mexico’s most unforgettable dishes. See you at the 2026 Hospitality Industry Awards and we will find out who wins!
Anthony N. - The Valley Cafe
Kiko R. - Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa & Resort
Josh A. - Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Mathew W. - Picacho Hills Country Club
Ryan G. - Paako Ridge Golf Club
Myles L. - Prairie Star Restaurant & W**e Bar
Stefani M. - La Fonda del Bosque
Brenden G. - Inn of the Mountain Gods
Armando M. - Las Cruces Convention Center
Alan S. - Isleta Resort & Casino
Benjamin W. - Savoy
Tyler T. - Vernon's Speakeasy
Danny C. - Ardovino's Desert Crossing
Bryan R. - Santa Claran Casino Resort
Rita T. - Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Anthony N. - The Valley Cafe
James H. - Albuquerque Convention Center
Kathleen C. - Market Steer Steakhouse
Victor G. - Yellow Brix Restaurant + W**e + B**r

09/18/2026

Earlier this week the New Mexico Prostart kids churned out some tasty green chile stew as they showcased their skills at the New Mexico State Fair!