TOA Awards 2026 Finalists - Hospitality Excellence
- Written by Admin TOA
- Published in Restaurants
The **Hospitality Excellence** category recognizes outstanding hospitality professionals and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service excellence, and innovation within the restaurant and hospitality industry. These finalists have successfully built respected brands, elevated customer experiences, and contributed to the growth and recognition of Turkish hospitality in the United States.
## Burak Karaçam
**Owner, Pera Restaurant**
Burak Karaçam is the owner of Pera Restaurant, a destination recognized for bringing the rich flavors and traditions of Turkish cuisine to New York. Through his dedication to authentic hospitality, exceptional dining experiences, and cultural representation, he has established Pera as a respected gathering place for both the Turkish American community and a diverse international clientele.
**Profile:** [https://www.peranyc.com]
---
## Fuat Hasoğlu
**Owner, The H Cuisine**
Fuat Hasoğlu is the owner of The H Cuisine, a restaurant celebrated for its refined culinary approach and commitment to quality. His focus on exceptional service, premium ingredients, and innovative presentation has earned recognition among diners seeking a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. His leadership reflects a passion for hospitality and culinary excellence.
**Profile:** [https://thehcuisine.com]
---
## Gökhan Yüzbaşıoğlu
**Founder, El Turco**
Gökhan Yüzbaşıoğlu is the founder of El Turco, a hospitality brand dedicated to introducing authentic Turkish flavors and traditions to a wider audience. Through entrepreneurial vision and a commitment to quality, he has successfully combined traditional recipes with modern hospitality standards, helping promote Turkish culinary culture in the United States.
**Profile:** *https://elturcoturkishfood.com/*
---
## Hakkı Akdeniz
**Owner & President, Champion Pizza**
Hakkı Akdeniz is the Founder and President of Champion Pizza, one of New York City's most recognized independent pizza brands. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, he is widely admired for his philanthropic work supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. His story of perseverance, business achievement, and community service has earned international recognition and inspired countless entrepreneurs.
**Profile:** [https://championpizzany.com]
---
## Onur Şafak
**Owner, ZOI Nomad**
Onur Şafak is the owner of ZOI Nomad, a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant in New York City known for combining elevated cuisine with warm hospitality. His commitment to culinary creativity, exceptional guest experiences, and high service standards has positioned ZOI Nomad among the city's notable dining destinations while showcasing the richness of Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired cuisine.
**Profile:** [https://www.zoinomad.com]
---
## Zach Erdem
**Owner, Zach Erdem Hospitality**
Zach Erdem is a hospitality entrepreneur and restaurateur recognized for building successful restaurant and entertainment venues while creating memorable guest experiences. Through Zach Erdem Hospitality, he has demonstrated excellence in restaurant management, brand development, and customer service. His leadership has contributed to the continued growth of the hospitality industry while promoting entrepreneurial innovation.
**Profile:** *(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zach_Erdem)*
