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The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is proud to recognize Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski as the 2026 Restaurateurs of the Year, the Association's highest honor recognizing outstanding leadership, excellence, and commitment to Louisiana's restaurant industry.

For decades, Link and Stryjewski have helped shape Louisiana's culinary reputation through award-winning restaurants, unwavering standards of hospitality, and a deep investment in their employees and communities. Together, they have built one of the state's most respected restaurant groups, operating Herbsaint, Cochon, Cochon Butcher, Pêche Seafood Grill, La Boulangerie, Gianna Restaurant, Calcasieu, and Chemin à la Mer at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans.

While their restaurants have earned national acclaim, their impact extends far beyond the dining room. As longtime members of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, Link and Stryjewski have consistently supported the industry's growth through advocacy, workforce development, and leadership. Their organization participates in the LRA Workers' Compensation Program, with CEO Michael DiSimone serving as Chairman of the program's Board of Trustees.

"Donald and Stephen have built more than exceptional restaurants—they've built opportunities, careers, and a lasting legacy for Louisiana's hospitality industry," said Stan Harris, President and CEO of the LRA. "Their leadership exemplifies everything the Restaurateurs of the Year Award represents."

The pair has also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to developing Louisiana's future hospitality workforce. As premier employer partners in the Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation's Registered Apprenticeship Program, they have created meaningful career pathways that provide aspiring culinary professionals with paid, hands-on training and mentorship while strengthening the industry's talent pipeline.

The Restaurateurs of the Year Award recognizes operators who have advanced Louisiana's restaurant industry while exemplifying service, quality, innovation, and engagement with the LRA and the LRA Education Foundation. Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski embody these ideals through their dedication to excellence, their investment in people, and their leadership both inside and outside their restaurants.

Their influence can be seen not only in the success of their restaurants but in the countless chefs, managers, and hospitality professionals whose careers have flourished under their mentorship. By preserving Louisiana's culinary traditions while embracing innovation and investing in the next generation, they continue to elevate the state's reputation as one of the world's premier dining destinations.

The Louisiana Restaurant Association is honored to recognize Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski as the 2026 Restaurateurs of the Year and congratulates them on this well-deserved recognition.

Watch their award video HERE.