Culinary Tourism Alliance Sponsors First-Ever Culinary & Agritourism Experience Award at Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador Conference
St. John’s, NL — The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA) is proud to announce its sponsorship of the first-ever Culinary & Agritourism Experience Award of Excellence at the Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador Conference, marking a significant milestone in the celebration of local food culture across Canada.
The inaugural Newfoundland and Labrador award is the fourth in a national series of culinary and agritourism accolades sponsored by the CTA. Previous awards include the long-standing recognition at the Tourism Industry Awards of Ontario, a newly launched award at the Tourism Industry Association of Canada’s National Congress in December 2024, and another introduced at the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia’s Conference this past March.
“Food, traditions, and the people behind them are what make a destination truly unforgettable,” said Nicole Brown, VP of Operations and Partnerships at the Culinary Tourism Alliance, during the award presentation. “We are honoured to shine a light on those who bring the story of place to life through unforgettable culinary experiences.”
This year’s Culinary & Agritourism Award of Excellence was awarded to Buoy & Arrow Restaurant & Suites, an exceptional culinary destination located in Rocky Harbour, Gros Morne National Park. Owned and operated by Holly and Jason Cullihall, Buoy & Arrow has quickly gained recognition for its authentic and innovative approach to Newfoundland and Labrador cuisine.
From Pulled Bear Sandwiches to Lobster Rolls and Moose Meat Specials, the restaurant's menu is a celebration of local ingredients, Indigenous heritage, and the vibrant coastal culture of the province. More than a restaurant, Buoy & Arrow is a cornerstone of the community, committed to sustainability, zero-waste practices, and deep-rooted partnerships with local fishers, hunters, and farmers.
“Buoy & Arrow exemplifies what it means to create a taste of place,” Brown continued. “They are not only feeding people, they are telling stories—stories of land, water, community, and culture.”
Their leadership within the industry, including active participation in NLITA and Go Western, showcases a dedication to growing the province’s agritourism ecosystem while inspiring a new generation of food-focused travel.
The Culinary Tourism Alliance is honoured to support initiatives that recognize culinary and agritourism excellence, reinforcing Canada's position as a world-class destination for food-forward travel.