The annual gold awards from the Ontario Hostelry Institute were announced this afternoon and those of us who have been aching to make the results public since our breakfast adjudication last Thursday can exhale once again. These honours are awarded by past gold award honorees and are really the equivalent of the industry “Oscars.”
The Institute’s mandate continues to be the recognition of excellence, passion, achievement and success in the hospitality industry. Each year, the OHI honours the celebrated achievements of industry professionals and raises critically needed funds for scholarships. The Gold Awards recognize those top hospitality industry achievers whose commitment to excellence enhances the image of Ontario among thousands of diners, travelers and vacationers each year.
Here are the 2011 Gold Award Honourees as announced today by J. Charles Grieco, OHI Chair and President. The Gold Award presentations will be made at the OHI’s Gala Gold Awards Dinner and Auction on Thursday, April 14 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto.
The Chairman’s OHI Gold Award will be given to Kathleen Taylor, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
The Chairman’s Lifetime Achievement Gold Award – Chef Jamie Kennedy, owner of Gilead and recently named to the Order of Canada.
Gold Award – Foodservice Chain Operator – Mark Pacinda, President and COO, Boston Pizza.
Gold Award – Independent Restaurateur – Armando Mano, Owner and General Manager, Centro Restaurant, Lounge & Catering.
Gold Award – Hotelier – Andy Loges, General Manager, Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites.
Gold Award – Educator – Michael Olson, Chef Professor at Niagara Culinary Institute.
Gold Award – Media/Publishing – Karen Gelbart, Food Television.
Gold Award – Chef – Jonathan Gushue , Executive Chef, Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa.
Gold Award – Supplier – Fatos Pristine, owner, Cheese Boutique
Further information about the OHI Gold Awards and the OHI Gold Awards Dinner and to make reservations for this marquee event can be found on-line at the OHI web-site www.theohi.ca.
Huge congratulations to these thoroughly deserving men and women.