2026 Grace “Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner Honoree

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sarah Lomax Gray,
Executive Director
Baton Rouge Epicurean Society
E: info@bresbrla.org
C: 225-931-8566

Baton Rouge Epicurean Society Announces Ruffin Rodrigue as the 2026 Grace “Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner Honoree

BATON ROUGE, LA — Wednesday, November 19, 2025 — The Baton Rouge Epicurean Society (BRES) announced today that Ruffin Rodrigue has been named the 2026 Grace “Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree during a press luncheon held at Gino’s Italian Restaurant.

Ruffin Rodrigue, the late owner of Ruffino’s Restaurant in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, was known for his passion for hospitality, his larger-than-life personality, and his deep love for Baton Rouge and LSU. A former LSU football player turned restaurateur, Ruffin built Ruffino’s into one of Louisiana’s most beloved dining destinations—a place where great food, laughter, and connection came together.

He was a tireless advocate for the hospitality industry, serving on Louisiana’s Legislative Advisory Task Force on Economic Recovery during COVID-19 and helping restaurants navigate unprecedented challenges. His generosity reached far beyond his business, supporting organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, Dreams Come True, No Kid Hungry, and the Cypress Springs Mercedarian Prayer Center Foundation.

Ruffin’s vision was never just about food—it was about creating moments that mattered. Guided by his personal motto, “Celebrate Life,” he brought joy and connection to everyone around him. From the warmth of his dining rooms to his unwavering support of others, Ruffin left a lasting mark on Louisiana’s hospitality industry and his community, inspiring others to live each day with joy, generosity, and purpose.

“Ruffin lived each day with joy and generosity, and his legacy continues to bring people together around the table. He mentored so many of us in the industry to lead with heart, and I can say I’m where I am today because of one conversation he had with me. I am so happy to honor him with this award.,” said Kelly Firesheets, President-Elect of the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society.

The Grace “Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership, hospitality, and philanthropy in the Greater Baton Rouge community. Ruffin joins a distinguished list of past honorees, including:

• 2007: Grace “Mama” Marino
• 2008: T.J. Moran*
• 2009: Frank Bologna*
• 2010: Charles Brandt*
• 2011: John Folse
• 2012: Tullio Saffiotti*
• 2013: Vince Ferachi*
• 2014: J.H. "Jay' Campbell,
• 2015: Bobby Yarborough
• 2016:  Holly Clegg*
• 2017: Tommy Simmons
• 2018: Benjamin "Ben" Kleinpeter*
• 2019: Charlie Valluzzo
• 2020: Covid Intermission on Events
• 2021: The Pizzolato Family
• 2022: Gino Marino
• 2023: Saurage Family
• 2024:Luci & Wayne Stabiler
• 2025: Bob Kirchoff

*deceased

The Baton Rouge Epicurean Society will host its 19th Annual Grace “Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at L’Auberge Casino & Hotel Baton Rouge to celebrate this year’s honoree. The evening will feature an exceptional multi-course dinner prepared by celebrated local chefs, with each course expertly paired with fine wines. Guests will also enjoy a live auction featuring exclusive culinary experiences and other high-value items. Tickets will go on sale in 2026. All proceeds benefit the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society’s mission to enrich the culinary culture of the Capital Area while raising funds for childhood nutrition and health initiatives, educational programs, and scholarships.

For more information, or to purchase tables, tickets, or sponsorships, please contact Sarah Lomax Gray, Executive Director, at info@bresbrla.org.

‍