The Wheyfarer Awarded The Medallion; 10 Torr Distilling and Brewing Awarded The Silver Star
Reno Food & Drink Week has officially announced its 2026 award recipients, recognizing two standout establishments that exemplify excellence in quality, hospitality, and execution.
10 Torr Distilling and Brewing has been awarded The Silver Star, and The Wheyfarer has been awarded The Medallion, recognizing two distinct levels of excellence.
These honors were determined through a rigorous, multi-layered evaluation process that began with more than 270 public guest evaluations submitted during Reno Food & Drink Week. From there, finalists advanced to The Top 8, followed by anonymous, post-event judging conducted under standard operating conditions. Scoring remains confidential, reinforcing the integrity and credibility of the program, which is designed to reflect the discretion of institutions such as the James Beard Foundation and the Michelin Guide.
10 Torr Distilling and Brewing: The Silver Star
Recognized for its exceptional beverage program, engaging hospitality, and meticulously maintained environment, 10 Torr Distilling and Brewing delivered a consistently high-level experience. Guests frequently noted the spotless condition of the space — from bar to patio to restrooms — paired with a welcoming, energetic atmosphere.
Service emerged as a defining strength, with bartenders described as knowledgeable, personable, and deeply engaged, often enhancing visits through storytelling and thoughtful recommendations. The beverage program stood out for its creativity and balance, with guests highlighting “fantastic, well-balanced cocktails,” “innovative pairings,” and a mixology approach that felt both refined and approachable. The combination of technical execution and genuine hospitality positioned 10 Torr as a leader among non-dining establishments.
Learn more about 10 Torr at 10Torr.com.
The Wheyfarer: The Medallion
The Wheyfarer was recognized for delivering a deeply memorable, cohesive culinary experience rooted in craftsmanship and connection. Guests consistently described the food as exceptional across all courses, with particular praise for the Cubano sandwich, baked brie, and crème brûlée — the latter frequently noted as “one of the best” and “honestly incredible.”
Beyond the menu, The Wheyfarer distinguished itself through an elevated yet approachable service style. Guests highlighted personalized recommendations, generous sampling, and a level of attentiveness that transformed each visit into a guided experience. Ownership and staff were frequently recognized for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to create meaningful interactions.
The environment, described as clean, thoughtfully curated, and reminiscent of a European-style deli and market, further reinforced the overall experience. Guests repeatedly emphasized not just the quality of the food, but the feeling of being welcomed, cared for, and inspired to return.
Learn more about The Wheyfarer at TheWheyfarer.com.
A Process Rooted in Consistency and Credibility
Reno Food & Drink Week is designed to recognize establishments that deliver excellence consistently, not just during a single event window. Public evaluations and secret judge evaluations focus on core criteria including Food & Drink Quality & Execution, Service & Hospitality, and Perceived Cleanliness, ensuring a well-rounded and experience-driven assessment.
The event brings increased visibility, guest traffic, and recognition to participating establishments while encouraging exploration across the local dining landscape. Guests are introduced to new restaurants, rediscover longtime favorites, and engage more deeply with the people and businesses behind Reno’s food-and-drink scene.
Formal award presentations will take place in the coming weeks.
Afterglow Series: Continuing the Celebration
Following the awards, Reno Food & Drink Week will host a series of limited-seating Afterglow experiences, offering guests an opportunity to engage more deeply with the year’s top honorees.
The Silver Star Afterglow will feature 10 Torr Distilling and Brewing in an intimate, concept-driven tasting designed to showcase what the establishment does best. The experience will highlight the creativity, technique, and beverage program that guests consistently praised — from balanced cocktails to innovative pairings — presented through a focused, immersive format. Tickets are $149 per guest, inclusive of tastings, tax, gratuity, and a charitable contribution.
The Medallion Afterglow will spotlight The Wheyfarer through an elevated, multi-course tasting that reflects the depth and cohesion of its culinary approach. The experience will draw from the elements guests responded to most — exceptional execution, thoughtful pairings, and a highly personalized service style — creating a refined progression that showcases the full scope of what defines the establishment. Tickets are $189 per guest, inclusive of tastings, tax, gratuity, and a charitable contribution.
The Champions’ Table will bring both winners together for a one-night-only collaborative experience, uniting The Medallion recipient and The Silver Star honoree in a shared-stage tasting. Expect two distinct formats presented side by side — a composed culinary progression alongside a focused beverage presentation — in an intimate, high-energy evening celebrating the very best of Reno Food & Drink Week. Tickets are $229 per guest, inclusive of tastings, tax, gratuity, and a charitable contribution.
Dates, times, locations, and benefiting organizations for each experience will be announced soon. Members receive special pricing through the Reno Food & Drink Week app.
Looking Ahead
Secret judging for the 2027 Reno Food & Drink Week has already begun, continuing the program’s year-round evaluation model. In addition to anonymous judging, guests will have ongoing opportunities to submit public evaluations throughout the year, contributing directly to the selection process for future invitations.
The Reno Food & Drink app will remain active year-round as the central hub for discovery, engagement, and participation. Guests can explore featured establishments, submit evaluations, and earn points through verified visits, reinforcing consistent engagement with the local dining community.
Monthly quests, rotating punch cards, and Loyalty Loops will introduce new ways to participate — encouraging guests to return, explore, and engage more deeply with the establishments they enjoy. These experiences are designed to reward both discovery and consistency, while highlighting the breadth and quality of Reno’s food-and-drink scene.
This extended model reinforces Reno Food & Drink Week’s core mission: to recognize establishments not for a single moment, but for sustained excellence over time — while creating meaningful, ongoing connections between guests and the local hospitality community.
