Top Local Chefs Competed For A Prestigious Title
Merani Hotel Group Restaurant, Bella Vista Ristorante, Receives 2025 Best Dish Award at Oceanda Event
TL;DR: Chef Ken Stoneback of Bella Vista Ristorante has won the 2025 Best Dish Award at Oceanda, an annual culinary and conservation event hosted by the Aquarium of Niagara. His winning dish — Cajun Blackened Scallop with corn succotash and tomato vinaigrette — impressed judges with its bold flavor, balance, and artistry. Guests can enjoy this award-winning dish at Bella Vista from Tuesday, November 18 through Sunday, November 23. Reserve your table to experience it for yourself.
Celebrating Culinary Excellence in Niagara Falls
Merani Hotel Group is proud to announce that Chef Ken Stoneback and his talented team at Bella Vista Ristorante have been awarded the 2025 Best Dish Award at the prestigious Oceanda event. Hosted annually by the Aquarium of Niagara, Oceanda brings together top local chefs to highlight sustainable seafood while supporting aquatic conservation efforts in the region.
This year’s competition featured some of the most creative culinary talent in Western New York, making Chef Ken’s win both meaningful and well-deserved.
The Winning Dish: Bold, Balanced, and Unforgettable
The dish that earned top honors? Cajun Blackened Scallop with corn succotash and tomato vinaigrette.
Expertly seared with a smoky Cajun crust, the scallop is paired with a vibrant corn succotash that adds sweetness and depth. The tomato vinaigrette brightens the plate with acidity and freshness, rounding out a dish that judges praised for its execution, presentation, and perfectly balanced flavors.
Experience the Award-Winning Creation at Bella Vista
To celebrate this notable achievement, Bella Vista Ristorante will be offering Chef Ken’s Cajun Blackened Scallop as a limited-time feature from
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 – Sunday, November 23, 2025
This is your chance to taste the dish exactly as it was presented to judges at Oceanda — beautifully plated, full of bold flavor, and crafted with care.
Reserve your table at Bella Vista Ristorante and experience an award-winning creation showcasing the region’s culinary excellence.
A Win for Bella Vista and the Niagara Culinary Community
Chef Ken’s recognition highlights not only his remarkable talent, but also Bella Vista’s ongoing commitment to creating fresh, memorable, and thoughtfully executed dishes. The Merani Hotel Group congratulates Chef Ken, his culinary team, and all participants who helped make Oceanda a celebration of local talent and sustainable cuisine.
Who, What, Where, When, Why, How:
What: Winner of the 2025 Best Dish Award for the Cajun Blackened Scallop with corn succotash and tomato vinaigrette.
When: Award-winning dish available at Bella Vista from Tuesday, November 18 – Sunday, November 23.
Where: Bella Vista Ristorante, Niagara Falls, NY, inside the Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls NY – Riverside, 7001 Buffalo Avenue
Why: To celebrate Chef Ken’s achievement and offer guests a chance to enjoy the same dish that captivated judges at Oceanda.
How: Book a reservation and try the limited-time featured dish during the promotional dates.
Plan Your Dine & Stay Getaway Today!
Image Gallery
Get a glimpse of the Bella Vista experience with our image gallery — from the stunning two-tiered patio overlooking the Niagara River to beautifully plated dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and cozy indoor dining. Whether you’re joining us for a romantic dinner, Sunday brunch, or sunset happy hour, every moment at Bella Vista is picture-perfect.
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