Each year, Restaurant Informer invites the hospitality community to nominate outstanding individuals they would like to recognize as Rising Stars. Nominations were submitted over a 30-day period this spring. This year delivered yet another outstanding group of nominations, with quite a few talented professionals that made the selection process very difficult.
Rising Stars are more than just strong performers in their roles—they are individuals who go beyond expectations, bring new ideas to the table, and contribute to the success of their teams and communities. They are the ones to watch.
This year’s Rising Stars hold a variety of roles, including chef, general manager, restaurant owner and team members in both the front and back of house. Representing restaurants from all across the state, these individuals have shown exceptional dedication, creativity, and leadership. While all are under the age of 40, their contributions already stand out as shaping the future of hospitality in Georgia.
Congratulations to the class of 2025 Rising Stars!
Lauren Burling — General Manager, Tio Lucho’s
Cari Fundora — Director of Marketing and Operations, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant
Maddy Judd — Dining Room Manager, Osteria Mattone
Lorenzo Masini — General Manager, Buena Vida Tapas
Jay Kloepfer — Co-owner GM, Marti’s at Midday
Olivier Reedholm — Chef de Cuisine, Lure
Brian Seo — General Manager, Ruby Chow’s
Look for Restaurant Informer’s upcoming Rising Stars feature to read more about each of these talented professionals.
Learn about what it takes to be a Rising Star and view past winners here.
Thank you to our 2025 Risings Stars sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Table Sponsors
Savannah Distributing and Society Insurance
