Hawksworth Group Scores a Hat Trick at Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards

Vancouver, B.C. (May 6, 2025) — Vancouver’s vibrant culinary scene was in the spotlight yesterday as the city’s top restaurants were celebrated at the 36th annual Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards, held at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Hawksworth Restaurant Group made a standout showing, taking home three top honours across its celebrated dining concepts.
Hawksworth Restaurant earned the coveted Best Special Occasion – Editor’s Choice award, praised by Vancouver Magazine for its “outstanding service, luxurious plates and an impressive beverage program,” adding that “Chef David Hawksworth’s diverse yet distinctly West Coast cuisine only elevates it further.”
Nightingale was recognized as Best Downtown, with editors highlighting its legendary wood-fired pizzas, alongside standout seasonal dishes and signature fried chicken: “We’d be remiss not to mention the righteous selection of seasonal vegetables or the crunchy perfection that is its fried chicken.”
Capping off the trio of accolades, Chris Rielly, Wine Director for Hawksworth Restaurant Group, was named Sommelier of the Year. Vancouver Magazine praised Rielly’s ability to curate a list that is “all things to all people,” balancing approachability with sophistication and creating a wine experience that appeals to everyone from casual diners to serious collectors.
“I’m incredibly proud of our talented and passionate teams,” says Chef David Hawksworth, founder of Hawksworth Restaurant Group. “These awards reflect their dedication to delivering memorable dining experiences every day. We’re honoured to be recognized and excited to continue raising the bar in Vancouver’s culinary community.”
In addition to these accolades, Hawksworth Restaurant was also named to the prestigious Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list, announced on the same day — reinforcing its position among the nation’s top dining destinations.
About Hawksworth Restaurant Group
Helmed by celebrated Canadian Chef David Hawksworth — the youngest chef ever inducted into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame (2008) — Hawksworth Restaurant Group is home to some of Vancouver’s most acclaimed dining destinations. From the sophisticated and award-winning Hawksworth Restaurant to the vibrant, ingredient-driven Nightingale, and the beloved Bel Café, the group is united by a passion for seasonal, locally inspired cuisine and exceptional guest experiences.
A leader in shaping Vancouver’s culinary landscape, Chef Hawksworth’s dedication to excellence has earned international recognition. His first cookbook, Hawksworth: The Cookbook, was released in 2020 and was shortlisted for a prestigious Gourmand Award.
For more, visit www.hawksworthrestaurant.com.
Media contact:
Annabel Hawksworth
annabel@hawksworth.ca
T: 604.609.6678