This year’s winners included several industry stalwarts, including Mark Pacinda, Boston Pizza (Chain Operator); Armando Mano, Centro Restaurant (Independent Restaurateur); Andy Loges, Hilton Toronto Airport (Hotelier of the Year); Michael Olson, Canadian Food and Wine Institute at Niagara College (Educator); Karen Gelbert, Food Television (Media); Jonathan Gushue, Langdon Hall (chef); and Fatos Pristine, Cheese Boutique (Supplier of the Year).
In addition to the annual awards, chef Jamie Kennedy received a Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of his 25+ years of passion and dedication to his craft. Kennedy has been instrumental in the growth and development of today’s culinary scene and mentoring and developing a new generation of cooks and chefs. Earlier this year, he won the Order of Canada for his contributions to the country’s foodservice industry.
On the hotel side, the Chairman’s Award was presented by Charles Grieco, chair and president of the OHI, to Kathleen Taylor, president and CEO of Four Seasons Hotel. Taylor has been instrumental in Four Seasons’ growing global portfolio, having worked at the company for more than two decades.
