What are the Charlie Awards?

Everything you need to know about Minnesota’s premier food event

Charlie Awards
Photo courtesy of the Charlie Awards

Sunday, November 13 marks the sixth annual Charlie Awards, Minnesota’s premier food event to recognize the best of the best in the Twin Cities dining scene. Here are a few FAQ’s about the awards.


What is the show like? It’s packed with variety. You can expect live musical performances (sometimes from the chefs!). Last year, a video played showing a few chefs reading mean, but hilarious, Yelp reviews from diners. You may even see tears from restaurateurs who reflect on their years of hard work while accepting an award. This year, Minnesota Monthly food critics Jason DeRusha and Joy Summers will host the evening, bringing their entertaining banters off the page and onto the stage.

What is the schedule? There are three parts to the celebration:

3:30 p.m.: The awards show at the Pantages Theatre in downtown Minneapolis.
5:00 p.m.: The Minnesota Monthly After Party in the IDS Crystal Court (a short walk from the theatre). Your ticket for the awards will also give you access to the party, featuring dozens of complimentary appetizers created by local culinary students.
6:30 p.m.: VIP Chefs’ dinner at Windows On Minnesota on the 50th floor of the IDS, with proceeds benefiting Open Arms of Minnesota. The dinner is created by some of the 2015 winners: Marshall Paulsen (Birchwood Cafe), Gavin Keysen (Spoon & Stable), Thomas Kim (The Rabbit Hole) and Karyn Tomlinson (Borough).

Who is invited? Anyone can attend with the purchase of a ticket.

How are the award winners chosen? Anyone affiliated with an independent food or beverage establishment is eligible for a nomination by a peer. Only the establishments who submit a nomination can vote to select the final honorees that are announced at the awards. Award categories span from Best Restaurant to service, so both the front and back of the house is honored. A list of nominees will be announced soon.

Visit charliesexceptionale.com to purchase tickets. Note: The VIP Chefs’ Dinner typically sells out, so don’t wait!

Charlie Awards
Appetizers from the 2015 Charlie Awards After Party