A gala dinner held recently at the Energy Events Centre heralded the announcement of the 2018 Rotorua Hospitality Awards. The awards recognised outstanding hospitality professionals, all of whom made a positive impact on the Rotorua café and dining scene.
Marisa Bidois, CEO of the Restaurant Association of New Zealand said: “We believe it’s important to celebrate one another in the hospitality industry. Our work is demanding and there are limited opportunities to come together to support each other. The Rotorua Hospitality Awards represent the occasion to do just that – celebrate the hard work and success of the hospitality industry within the region. Congratulations to all winners.
“With all categories keenly contested, this year’s winners truly exemplify what it means to be at the top of their respective categories.”
Phil Elliot from Atticus Finch took top honours winning the Outstanding Chef award, and aspiring chef Bethany-May Allen from Peppers on the Point – Lake Rotorua was awarded Emerging Chef. The team at Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar – Skyline Rotorua took out the Outstanding Front of House Team honour, and Regent of Rotorua proved they have all the ingredients to be named Outstanding Restaurant.
Third Place Café was presented Outstanding Café for a second year running, with Outstanding Barista honours going to Grace Choi, McDonalds Fenton Street.
Urbano Bistro was awarded Outstanding Design & Ambience with Indian Star Restaurant picking up top honours for Outstanding Ethnic Restaurant. Shaye Honeycombe, Ponsonby Rd Lounge Bar awarded Outstanding Bartender and Brew Craft Beer Pub was named Outstanding Bar.
After an impressive 8,500 votes received, the coveted People’s Choice Award went to Scope Rotorua.
Ray Singh of Indian Star Restaurant was awarded Icon of Hospitality for his dedication to the industry spanning over 25 years, with 18 of them contributing to the flourishing scene Rotorua hospitality of today.
Guests were treated to a selection of local produce and beverages and entertainment by local DJ Shane Schwalger.
