If you’re on the hunt to dine at some of the city’s top restaurants, but unsure exactly where that might be, look no further. We got the chance to revel with the greats in the business on April 8th, when the NYC Hospitality Alliance hosted their 4th annual awards show at Tao Downtown.
The night honored not only some of the best restaurants in hospitality, but also those who consistently work behind the scenes in the hospitality industry in order to make each guest’s experience ultimately extraordinary. Friends, family and industry professionals alike enjoyed an evening celebrating those going above and beyond in the industry. The event offered some of the best cuisine ranging from fresh sushi to tasty sliders.
Honoring those who won, a slideshow was presented with a short background and announcement of each honoree, followed by live music in the venue.
Founded in 2012, the NYC Hospitality Alliance made it their mission to continue the growth and success of the industry New York City is so well-known for.
With their unique and inspiring agenda, the alliance strives to constantly be innovative while also creating new opportunity for those aspiring to join their movement. “The Alliance Awards give us an opportunity to recognize and honor the remarkable people and businesses that contribute so much to our city and make New York City the hospitality capital of the world,” said Andrew Rigie, Executive Director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance. The awards show is able to honor a portion of the various efforts each member gives every year.
Below you can find the award categories, as well as the winning person or restaurant.
The first honored the best in each of the five boroughs in New York City
I Love Bronx Award: Moss Café, Bronx Havana Café and Trattoria Tra Di Noi
I Love Brooklyn Award: Bogota Latin Bistro, Olmsted and Tanoreen
I Love Manhattan Award: Magnolia Bakery, Peasant and Rainbow Room
I Love Queens Award: Adda, London Lennie’s and Bungalow Bar
I Love Staten Island Award: Vinum, Corner House BBQ and Vida
Most iconic dish served at an NYC restaurant
True Taste of NYC Award: Veselka; Pierogies
Most influential bar, club, cocktail bar or operator
City That Never Sleeps Award: Blue Note
One who has achieved respect and excellence working in one or more jobs in a restaurant kitchen. (Executive Chef, Pastry Chef, etc)
Back of House Award: Dan Kluger (Loring Place)
One who has achieved respect and excellence working in one or more jobs on the dining room floor of a restaurant. (Manager, Maitre d’, Sommelier, Server, Bartender, etc)
Front of House Award: Tezra Bryant (Alacrity Associates / Sylvia’s Restaurant)
One who achieved respect and excellence working in one or more operation level jobs for a single unit or restaurant group. (COO, CFO, F&B Director, etc)
Operations Award: Timothy Meyers (RH Rooftop)
One who is recognized for excellence in the profession of human resources in hospitality
Hearts of Hospitality Award: Jackie McMann Oliveri (Gato & Bobby’s Burger Palace)
One who started at an entry-level job in the industry and is now in a leadership role
The Determination Award: Jakeline Pereira (SA Hospitality)
Up-and-coming or established mover and shaker who is still early in their hospitality industry career (Must be under 40 years old on April 29, 2019)
The Next Generation Award: Simon Kim (Cote)
Restaurant, chef, restaurateur, nightlife operator or social media influencer with a social media presence that makes you drool, laugh, think and captures your attention
#HospitalityGuru Award: Gennaro Pecchia (@MenWhoDine)
Charitable organization whose work helps to make the neighborhoods of NYC a more hospitable place- with a focus on working with the restaurant and hospitality industry
Philanthropy Served Here Award: Billion Oyster Project
Emerging or established fast casual restaurant concept we can’t get enough of
Fast Casual Award: Num Pang
