A Gourmet evening.

Norah O'Donnell and Chef Geoff Tracy

Photo credit: Neshan H. Naltchayan

About 1500 guests took the Restaurant Association's slogan"Dine Out...Dine Often...Dine Deliciously" seriously by attending a smorgasbord of food and wine at the 2012 Annual RAMMY Awards at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel.

This year's slogan "Hats Off to Restaurants" explains the otherwise outlandish headgear.  

The event created a buzz-worthy dining experience which included Carved Macadamia Parmesan & Parsley Crusted Lamb Chops, Amazon Cod Fish, Virginian Artisanal Cheese Display with Assorted Jams, Chutney  Peanuts, Seared Chesapeake Bay Ray & Scallops Cakes, Remoulade & Tartar Sauces, Pan Seared Beef Mignonettes with Caramelized Onions & Wild Mushrooms -- well, you get the picture.

This was, of course, washed down with Farmhouse Punch, 42 & Cloudy, Conquistador Punch, Dia de Descanso, The Huntress; or, if you're not adventurous, make that a beer.

It was great to see former DC Mayor Anthony Williams whose vision help create the now thriving dining experience in Washington;  it was fun to listen to NBC4 reporter Tom Sherwood who was wit on speed; excited to watch the nominees of the multiple categories and a blast to listen and dance to the band.

Thank you Lynne Breaux - President, RAMW.  For the winners, click here.

Lynne Breaux with Jeff and Barbara Black

A look inside: Photos by Neshan