TOURISM/HOSPITALITY CATEGORY
AWARD TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS
Award Titles and Descriptions
1. Canteen/Buka of the Year
Recognizes a beloved local eatery, often modest in appearance but rich in flavor and
community appeal. Known for affordable, hearty, and predominantly local dishes, these
spots are favorites among students, workers, and everyday food lovers for their
consistent taste and down-to-earth charm.
2. Street Food Joint of the Year
Honors an exceptional street food setup — whether a roadside stand, market stall, or
kiosk — that offers quick, tasty, and accessible meals. Known for its signature dish or
standout experience, this award spotlights vendors who combine hygiene, flavor, and
loyal followings.
3. Fast Food of the Year
Celebrates a structured quick-service outlet known for speed, convenience, and quality.
This award goes to a brand with broad appeal, strong identity, good packaging, reliable
service, and easily accessible locations.
4. Bakery of the Year
Rewards excellence in baked goods, from traditional staples to innovative pastries. The
ideal winner offers freshness, consistency, and a unique flair, with a taste and
presentation that reflect local or regional influences.
5. Gourmet Restaurant of the Year
Recognizes a high-end dining destination known for refined cuisine, artistic
presentation, and exceptional service. This award goes to a restaurant that treats food
as an art form, often offering tasting menus or immersive fine dining experiences rooted
in a clear culinary identity.
6. Food Store of the Year
Honors a standout retail or walk-in food outlet offering packaged, processed, or
ready-to-eat food products. From delis to specialty stores and supermarkets, the winner
excels in product range, display, customer experience, and quality, often blending local
and imported offerings.
7. Restaurant of the Year
Celebrates an all-round exceptional restaurant delivering excellence in taste, service,
ambiance, and menu diversity. It is not confined to fine dining or fast food, but rather
offers a balanced and consistently outstanding experience across all customer
touchpoints.
8. Indigenous Food Restaurant of the Year
Honors a restaurant that champions native African cuisine, offering a menu deeply
rooted in traditional recipes and cultural flavors. This award recognizes establishments
that preserve heritage while providing high-quality, often immersive, dining experiences.
NOMINATION GUIDELINES
- Must be African-based (located in any African country)
- Must have been in operation for at least 12 months
- Should have visible customer engagement or public recognition
- Can be nominated by the public or industry professionals
- Social media presence or online reviews may be considered as supporting
materials
CRITERIA FOR SELECTION
- Taste and quality of food
- Ambience and experience
- Customer service
- Originality and innovation
- Cultural relevance or preservation (for indigenous categories)
- Consistency and reputation