Cromwell’s Fusee Rouge Cafe has made the list of finalists for the ‘Best Cafe award’ in the Hospitality Awards for Excellence for the second year running.

Fusee Rouge Cafe owner Nicola Brockie said the team loved putting Cromwell on the map.

“I’m proud and thankful for our team, our customers and our town who have continued to support us through what has been a challenging two years in business.”

For the best cafe award, judges are looking for a venue that delivers an exceptional experience for their guests, exceeding their expectations. To reach the final list of five the venue must emulate the best of the best.

Other finalists in the category are: 11th Avenue by Frank’s (Queenstown), Bonobo Café (Christchurch), Rusty Radiator Diner Café (Halcombe) and The Wholemeal Café (Takaka).

Nicola said her general manager Alaskia Hansen was also in the running for an award to be announced on the night for a ‘Future Leader of Hospitality’.

One hundred and seventy seven venues from around the country submitted 209 nominations in the awards.

Chief judge Michael Friend said a record number of entries have been received this year and the panel has been challenged in deciding the best of the best. 

“There have been some outstanding submissions across all categories and many forms of innovative presentation. 

“The panel were most impressed with the degree of detail provided given the resources available to entrants during these Covid times. It has also been interesting to read the various initiatives entrants have employed while re-invigorating their businesses.”

Central residents can support Fusee Rouge in the people’s choice category by voting online here. 

The cafe’s coffee and donuts are a hit with locals. PHOTO: Supplied

Fusee Rouge is at 64B The Mall in Cromwell and employs a team of six.

It will be the first time in three years the Awards for Excellence have been held in person, due to Covid restrictions. They were held online last year after being cancelled in 2020.

Winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Auckland on July 27. View the other finalists in the awards here. 

Stay tuned to The Central App as we’ll keep you updated on how they go.