The capital’s most lauded and award-winning steakhouse has reached the finalist list again two years after opening its fledgling doors, in the prestigious Hospitality New Zealand national excellence awards.
Creatively thinking outside the square with the passionate pursuit of excellence has propelled the restaurant to be one of the best operators in the business, a view shared by both the judging panel and Rydges Wellington General Manager, Simon White.
“Two years ago when we opened Portlander, our vision was to create a restaurant that’s continually evolving and pushing the boundaries – a place where our customers would become loyal and ardent advocates.
We feel that we have now succeeded and it’s such a thrill to see all the hard work come to fruition and ultimately recognised by our peers with a finalist nomination for ‘Best Restaurant’.”
Rydges Wellington has proven its pedigree of consistent performance by reaching two highly sought-after finalist lists in the national Hospitality New Zealand awards for the fourth time in a row.
This year the award-winning 280 room, Featherston Street property is vying to reclaim its title in the ‘Best accommodation Hotel in New Zealand’ and ‘Excellence in Marketing’ categories.
Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Bruce Robertson said worthy finalists epitomise the crème-de-la-crème of New Zealand’s hospitality industry across all its guises.
The common theme all finalists shared was the outstanding levels of innovation, customer service and business professionalism.
Rydges Wellington General Manager, Simon White says the secret to the hotel’s success is simple, it’s talented teamwork.
“Every year this hotel goes from strength to strength and we never rest on our laurels. I’m extremely proud of the entire team for what they continue to accomplish – it’s our talented people that make our hotel great.”
Twelve months ago Rydges triumphed by winning three awards for; ‘Best Accommodation Hotel in New Zealand’, ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ and ‘Excellence in Marketing (Portlander Bar & Grill)’.
The winner will be announced Thursday 18 September at Hospitality New Zealand’s black tie Awards for Excellence dinner at the Energy Events Centre in Rotorua.
