2022 GRACE Award Winners

Lifetime Achievement – Dr. Debra Cannon, Ph.D., Georgia State University | Robinson School of Business | Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality

Chairman's Honor – Senate President Pro Tempore Butch Miller, Georgia State Senate

Restaurateur of the Year – Southern Proper Hospitality (Chris Hadermann)

Emerging Restaurateur of the Year – Mukja Korean Fried Chicken (Sean Chang)

Industry Partner of the Year – Melissa Libby & Associates

Hospitality Hero of the Year – Sterling Hospitality (John C. Metz)

People’s Choice Awards

The People’s Choice Awards feature four award categories: All awards were nominated and voted on by the Georgia restaurant community (guests, employees, suppliers and vendors). 

• Favorite Neighborhood Hangout – the Woodall
• Favorite Born-and-Raised Beverage – Bold Monk Brewing Co.
• Favorite Eatertainment Experience – The Roof at Ponce City Market
• Uniquely Georgia Restaurant – Canoe

Restaurant Manager of the Year – Pepe Fundora, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant and Cork & Glass

Restaurant Employee of the Year – Katherine Najera, Willy’s Mexicana Grill

Hall of Fame – Ellen Hartman, Hartman Public Relations

Hall of Fame – John Harof, Sizzlin Steak Concepts/Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Hall of Fame – Mario Antonio “Tony” Fundora, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant