Celebrating the best of the best in SC's Upstate

The Upstate Chapters of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) are pleased to announce the recipients of the 12th Annual Upstate Hospitality Awards! This remarkable event shines a spotlight on the commitment, professionalism, and outstanding service of the dedicated individuals of the top individuals in our industry.

Nominations from SCRLA members across the Upstate, of Anderson, Greenville, Pickens, and Spartanburg Counties were accepted and reviewed by the selection committee.

We invite you to join us for a memorable event at the Upstate Hospitality Awards Ceremony, where we will come together to honor these honorees. Reserve your tickets today for Monday, November 11, at The L by Larkin’s, downtown Greenville, as we celebrate the very best of hospitality!

This year's winners include:

Restaurant Categories

• Front of House Employee of the Year
  Danny Alexander, Ruth's Chris Steak House
  
  
• Heart of House Employee of the Year
  Dimetre Jones, Ruth's Chris Steak House
  
  
• Manager of the Year
  Drew Breen, Camp Modern American Eatery
  
  

• Outstanding Bartender of the Year
  Samuel Goudy, Restaurant 17/Hotel Domestique
  
  
• Outstanding Certified Sommelier
  Alexandra Hackett, Rick Erwin Dining Group
  
  
• Restaurateur of the Year
  Joe Cash, Scoundrel
  
  
• Sales/Marketing/Catering Employee of the Year
  Michaele Leitch, Table 301

Lodging Categories

• Front of House Employee of the Year
  Jessica Ward, AC Hotel Greenville
  
  
• Heart of House Employee of the Year
  Monty Carmichael, Embassy Suites Golf Resort Greenville
  
  
• Manager of the Year
  Derek Cooper, Residence Inn/SpringHill Suites
  
  

• Excellence in Housekeeping
  Marka Fitzgerald, Embassy Suites Golf Resort Greenville
  
  
• Hotelier of the Year
  Barbara Shehan, The Abernathy
  
  
• Sales/Marketing/Catering Employee of the Year
  Jennifer King, Spartanburg Marriott

Open/Community Categories

• Hospitality Educator of the Year
  David Miller, Bob Jones University
  
  
• Hospitality Supplier of the Year
  TPM, Inc

• Outstanding Community Service Program
  Arrowhead Design Group's 501c Project
  
  
• Outstanding Community Service Leader
  Tammy Johnson, High Spirits Hospitality