Applications open for the 2026 Snail of Approval Awards. Applications will remain open until December 1, 2025.

Who Should Apply?

Any food-related business that produces and/or offers food for public consumption in DC, Maryland, or Virginia and is pursuing and practicing Slow Food values of good, clean and fair food for all. The business must be open at least one year to apply.

Can I Nominate a Business/Organization?

Yes! You can nominate restaurants, farms, ranches, fisheries, cafes, bars, food trucks, breweries, wineries, caterers and value-added food producers to be considered for a Snail of Approval award. We’ll reach out to the organization directly and ask them to fill out an eligibility application.

How do I start?

The first step in the process is to complete the nomination form.

The nomination form usually takes 30 minutes to complete.

What comes next?

After reviewing nominations, members from the Slow Food DC board will schedule appoints with selected candidates to learn more about your business practices.

Applications will remain open until December 1, 2025.

Organizations/Businesses who are selected for the Snail of Approval 2026 award will be notified in early 2026.

In spring, Snail of Approval Awardees will be recognized at our bi-annual Snail of Approval Awards Party 2026, a heartfelt celebration of the people and places shaping a more sustainable and connected food future.