Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect Mike Isabella is facing allegations of “sexual harassment.”
WASHINGTON — Earlier this month, two of celebrity chef Mike Isabella’s restaurants were named finalists in the 2018 RAMMY Awards, often called the “Oscars of food.”
Now, that is no longer the case.
In light of recent sexual harassment allegations filed against Isabella and several members of his leadership team, Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s judges panel decided to rescind these nominations.
In a statement issued on March 29, the panel announced Isabella’s Arroz will no longer be considered for an award in the category New Restaurant of the Year, and G by Mike Isabella will be removed as a finalist for Favorite Fast Bites.
Michael Rafidi, former executive chef of Isabella’s Arroz and Requin, was nominated for Rising Star Chef of the Year. The judges are letting Rafidi remain a RAMMY contender.
“The judges decided that this category, based on individual talent and performance, is focused on the individual and can be evaluated separately from the restaurant(s) and or company of employment. Rafidi was not named in the lawsuit which brought these allegations to light,” the RAMW statement said.
Chloe Caras, the former director of operations for Isabella Eatery, filed a lawsuit against Isabella, a former “Top Chef” star, in Superior Court in the District of Columbia on March 19. The lawsuit says Caras was subject to sexual advances and vulgar and sexual remarks, among other things, during the three years she was employed with Mike Isabella Concepts.
Isabella, his partners and his company denied the allegations, according to a statement released by Mike Isabella Concepts.
The RAMW judges panel will not add additional finalists in the two categories where Isabella’s nominations were removed. The RAMMY Award winners will be announced at the 36th annual RAMMY Awards Gala on June 10 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
