Entering the Restaurant Awards
Each year, Wine Spectator honors restaurants across the globe that have exceptional wine programs. A Wine Spectator Restaurant Award offers unmatched credibility and publicity, connecting wine lovers with outstanding wine lists wherever they may be. The information and links below tell you everything you need to know about our Restaurant Awards program, including how to enter, how to renew, entry fees and the criteria for each award level.
The 2025 submission window will be from Jan. 14 to March 14, 2025
All applications MUST be submitted through our online platform, which will go live on Jan. 14, 2025.
To receive an email notification when 2025 award submissions are open, please fill out this form.
Entry Fees
Those who apply in the first month, from Jan. 14 through Feb. 14, 2025, will receive an early-bird discounted application fee of $595. The standard application fee will be $745 for those who submit from Feb. 15 through March 14, 2025.
What is required to apply for an award?
All applicants—whether new entrants or renewing for a previously earned award—are required to complete an online application, for which you will need the following:
- Digital copies of your wine list and dinner menus
- A form of payment for the entry fee (check or credit card)
- A one-page cover letter (optional but strongly encouraged), preferably on your restaurant letterhead, describing your storage conditions, inventory, pricing and any other information you feel is relevant to your wine program; please submit this cover letter in English.
- Three digital photos of the restaurant (optional*); please be sure to have these ready before you start the online application
- A digital headshot of the restaurant's wine director or sommelier (optional*)
* Photos are not a requirement, but they may be used to enhance your listing in the magazine, Restaurant Awards website and Restaurant Awards iOS app.
What to know before you apply:
Make sure your wine list meets these basic requirements:
- The list must provide vintages, appellations and prices for all selections, including wines by the glass. Please note that spelling and overall presentation and appearance of the list are taken into consideration. Winning lists generally have around 90 selections or more.
- The submitted wines list must be an exact copy of what is currently in use in your restaurant. Lists entered reflect what your customers will see and have access to.
- Entries from private clubs are not eligible.
- For more information, please refer to our About the Award Levels and FAQ pages.
If you have any questions about applying for a Restaurant Award that are not answered here or in the included links, please email restaurantawards@mshanken.com.
