Celebrating New Mexico Hospitality: Lee Caperton Nominated for 2026 Restaurateur of the Year
Cantina Hospitality Group is proud to celebrate an exciting recognition within New Mexico’s restaurant community. Lee Caperton of Cantina Hospitality Group was nominated for Restaurateur of the Year at the 2026 New Mexico Restaurant Association Hospitality Industry Awards.
The annual Hospitality Industry Awards recognize the people who help make New Mexico’s restaurant and hospitality industry stronger through leadership, service, innovation, and dedication.
Lee and Kelly Caperton were joined by members of the Cantina Hospitality Group management team for the awards ceremony, making the evening an opportunity to celebrate not only Lee’s nomination, but also the people behind our restaurants. It was a special night to come together, connect with fellow hospitality professionals, and recognize the individuals and teams who continue to make an impact across New Mexico’s restaurant industry.
Being nominated for Restaurateur of the Year is an incredible honor for Lee and the entire Cantina Hospitality Group team. From Brekki Brekki and Tamashi to Poki Poki Cevicheria, The Sweet Cup, and Pazzi Ristorante Italiano, our restaurants are built around one shared goal: creating memorable experiences for our guests while continuing to grow and contribute to New Mexico’s hospitality community.
We would also like to congratulate George Gundrey of Tomasita’s and Atrisco Café, who was named the 2026 Restaurateur of the Year, along with all of this year’s Hospitality Industry Awards winners and nominees. Their leadership, creativity, and commitment continue to move New Mexico hospitality forward.
A special thank you to the New Mexico Restaurant Association for bringing our industry together and for its continued work supporting restaurants and hospitality professionals throughout the state. Cantina Hospitality Group is grateful to be involved with an organization that advocates for, connects, and strengthens New Mexico’s restaurant community.
Congratulations to Lee, all of this year’s nominees, and the 2026 Hospitality Industry Awards winners! We’re proud to be part of New Mexico’s restaurant community and excited for what’s ahead. Full list of the 2026 winners click here.
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