This month Aramark is proud to recognize the 2025 Local Restaurant Row “Best Of” honorees, a distinguished group of small business partners whose culinary talent and community commitment enrich dining experiences across campuses, workplaces, and health care settings nationwide. Now in its fourth year recognizing stand-out entrepreneurs and restaurateurs, Local Restaurant Row continues to expand its reach and impact, strengthening connections between guests and the local restaurants they love.
Local Restaurant Row connects Aramark clients and guests with locally loved restaurants by integrating their menus, flavors, and stories directly into the locations served. The program brings authentic, neighborhood-driven pop-up experiences to life in fully branded, operationally supported spaces, offering guests a meaningful variety while supporting local businesses.
"These award winners reflect what makes Local Restaurant Row so special. They show up as true partners, working hand in hand with our teams to bring amazing food and meaningful hospitality to our guests," said Max Cavanaugh, Senior Director for Local Restaurant Row. "We are grateful for their commitment and thrilled to celebrate their achievements."
This year's honorees represent a wide range of cuisines, service models, and regional specialties, each bringing something uniquely valuable to the guest experience.
2025 Local Restaurant Row “Best Of” Awardees
Presidential Award
These partners were nominated in multiple categories and represent the highest level of excellence within the Local Restaurant Row program.
Mi Cocina | Texas
A beloved Tex Mex institution in Dallas, Mi Cocina brings significant energy to Southern Methodist University through its rotating features inside the Revolve Kitchen concept and its strong presence at campus athletics. As a second-time Local Restaurant Row honoree, Mi Cocina continues to demonstrate the growth and excellence that define the program. Their exemplary performance, warm hospitality, and consistently strong guest satisfaction made them a standout last year and are key reasons they are now recognized as a Presidential Award finalist. Their culinary identity and guest engagement make them an outstanding partner.
Spaghetti Shack | Arizona
Founded by an Arizona State University (ASU) alumnus, Spaghetti Shack is deeply connected to the ASU community. Their consistent presence on campus, support of student focused events, and approachable comfort food have made them an integral part of university life.
Financial Award
Partners recognized in this category demonstrate strong guest demand, consistent performance, and meaningful contributions to the overall success of Local Restaurant Row.
Los Hermanos | Maryland
Among the first partners to join Local Restaurant Row at Marriott Headquarters, Los Hermanos is a Dominican restaurant celebrated for its reliability, flavorful Caribbean inspired dishes, and ability to support both daily dining and large-scale catering events.
Pueblo Viejo | Massachusetts
Celebrated for its warm hospitality and beautifully crafted Mexican cuisine, Pueblo Viejo continues to earn praise from guests for its exceptional food quality and authenticity. After being recognized last year with the Operational Excellence award, the team carried that momentum forward, pairing outstanding service with impressive financial success throughout 2025. Their inviting atmosphere and consistent commitment to excellence have made Pueblo Viejo a standout favorite across Workplace Experience Group locations in Boston.
Growth Award
These restaurants have expanded their reach, strengthened their brand, or grown their business as a result of their Local Restaurant Row partnership.
Maiz | Michigan
Maiz brings vibrant Mexican cuisine and standout hospitality to the University of Michigan Health community. Their team elevates the guest experience through creative presentation, enthusiastic service, and a genuine passion for sharing their food.
Pakka Spice | Pennsylvania
Pakkai Spice has earned a dedicated following at SAP Newtown Square with its flavorful Indian cuisine and exceptional collaboration. The team is known for its adaptability, thoughtful menu development, and continued commitment to guest satisfaction.
Wava Halal Grill | Texas
A trusted partner since 2021, Wava Halal Grill has become a student favorite across several Student Nutrition Texas accounts by delivering high quality Mediterranean cuisine with reliable, friendly service. Their consistency and commitment to collaboration helped establish their early success with Student Nutrition, which in turn opened the door for them to expand and support additional lines of business across the region. Today, Wava Halal Grill stands as an important part of Local Restaurant Row in Texas, valued for both their flavorful menu and strong operational dependability.
Operational Excellence Award
Awarded to partners who demonstrate exceptional standards in food quality, safety, service efficiency, and overall reliability.
Plum Pit | Pennsylvania
Plum Pit is known for professionalism, flexibility, and strong guest satisfaction. Their presence supports campus concessions and special events with reliable service that enhances overall operations.
Tea and Milk | New York
Tea and Milk is recognized for its outstanding food safety practices, attentive communication, and consistently positive guest feedback. Their professionalism has made them a trusted partner at Goldman Sachs.
Teamwork and Guest First Award
Honoring partners who consistently prioritize collaboration, hospitality, and an exceptional guest experience.
BLT Kitchens | Arizona
BLT Kitchens plays a key role in supporting both food trucks and the new brick and mortar Local Restaurant Row location on the ASU Tempe campus. Their collection of award-winning concepts and collaborative approach has made them a valued partner across campus dining and catering.
Feed Your Soul | Ohio
Feed Your Soul delivers high quality American comfort food with a deep commitment to guest satisfaction. Known for quick service and consistent quality, they ensure students at Denison University enjoy an excellent experience whether ordering through meal exchange or retail.
Unique Award
Awarded to partners who stand out for distinctive cuisine, presentation, or hospitality.
Mary’s Arepas | South Carolina
Mary’s Arepas, a Colombian food truck rooted in the Soda City Farmers Market, is celebrated for heartfelt hospitality and handmade arepas that bring cultural tradition to the University of South Carolina. Their story and flavors have made them a beloved part of campus dining.
Munchies | Mississippi
Created and operated by two University of Mississippi students, Munchies Chicken and Waffles represents innovation and student entrepreneurship. Their late-night concept brings energy and authenticity to the Ole Miss campus.
Plates on Deck | Florida
Known for soulful seafood boils and national visibility through The Great Food Truck Race, Plates on Deck has been a cherished partner at the University of Central Florida. Their creativity, dedication, and campus pride shine in every dish they serve.
Together, these honorees highlight the cultural diversity and entrepreneurial spirit that define Local Restaurant Row. By partnering with talented local restaurateurs, Aramark is proud to help elevate community-based businesses while offering guests meaningful culinary experiences that reflect the places they live, work, and learn. With more than 1,400 community partners participating across 350 accounts, the program continues to strengthen local connections and expand opportunities for small businesses nationwide.
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