Cutalong at Tributer Resort has received national recognition in the 2026 Golden Fork Competition, with Coopers Bar & Restaurant earning third place honors in two major categories.

The awards, presented by Golf Inc., recognized Coopers in both the New Private F&B Facility and Food Programming categories. Coopers was the only food-and-beverage facility in this year’s competition to be honored in two categories.

The recognition marks a significant milestone for the Lake Anna luxury golf community, developed by Reef Capital Partners. Coopers debuted alongside the opening of the new clubhouse — the first completed amenity within the resort community. The clubhouse, anchored by Coopers, overlooks the golf course and serves as a central gathering place for members and guests.

“Having Cutalong at Tributer Resort recognized by Golf Inc. as part of the Golden Fork Awards is a tremendous honor for the club, our members, and team,” said Ian Sikes, general manager at Cutalong. “The award is a testament to the vision of our F&B team, the dedication to hospitality and service displayed daily by Cutalong’s staff, and the support from club membership.”

The Golden Fork Awards, announced in the January/February 2026 issue of Golf Inc., celebrate excellence in golf club food-and-beverage design and programming worldwide. Judges evaluate creativity, menu design, signature dishes and drinks, sourcing practices, and overall guest experience.

Coopers’ culinary program centers on seasonality and regional heritage. Menus feature fresh seafood and pasture-raised meats, supported by daily deliveries of premium seafood. One Golf Inc. judge noted, “Fresh regional seafood, heritage meats, seasonal menus, and crafted cocktails show a consistent emphasis on technique and ingredient integrity.”

The restaurant’s wine program is curated by a Master Sommelier alongside a Level 2 wine expert and includes both boutique producers and iconic Napa Valley selections. A rotating cocktail menu reimagines classic recipes with modern techniques. And an in-house bakery further distinguishes the operation, producing breads, pastries, and desserts daily using traditional methods and premium ingredients.

The restaurant also developed a custom draft beer, The Cut Lager, which earned a Virginia Bronze Medal in 2025.

“Coopers has quickly become a defining part of the Cutalong Tributer member experience because it offers far more than exceptional food; it fosters genuine connection and community,” said Dave Medina, director of food and beverage.

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