South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association Honors 2026 Stars of the Hospitality Industry

COLUMBIA, S.C. –Earlier this week, the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) hosted its 73rd Annual Stars of the Hospitality Industry Awards at the Hilton Columbia Center. Presented by Sysco, this prestigious gala celebrates the best and brightest of the state’s tourism and hospitality workforce. Nearly 200 individuals attended the event and 18 award winners were honored in various categories.

"The hospitality industry is the heartbeat of South Carolina’s economy, but its true strength lies in the dedicated individuals who show up every day to serve our guests and communities" said Douglas OFlaherty, interim President and COO of SCRLA. "These awards are a testament to the passion and resilience of our workforce. Honoring these 'Stars' isn't just a celebration of their hard work—it’s a recognition of the excellence that makes our state a world-class destination."

The Stars of Industry Awards recognize the extraordinary commitment, professionalism, and service of individuals who elevate South Carolina’s $31 billion hospitality industry. From front-of-house staff to executive leadership, these honorees represent the pinnacle of excellence in service and community contribution.

"This year's honorees have shown us what excellence looks like in real time. You have turned long days into memorable experiences. You have solved problems with grace. You have lifted up teammates, supported your communities, and raised the bar for what hospitality can be... Your work doesn’t just create satisfied guests—it builds loyalty, comfort, and connection in a world that needs all three,” said Mark McKinney, Manager of Business Specialists at Sysco.

2026 Award Honorees

Restaurant Categories:

• Restaurateur of the Year
  Jonathan Kish, Queen Street Hospitality
• Restaurant Manager of the Year
  Elizabeth Kinney, Restaurant 17/Hotel Domestique
• Outstanding Restaurant Chef of the Year
  Michael Sibert, White Wine & Butter
• Outstanding Bartender of the Year:
  Patrick Peterson, Isla's on the Square
• Restaurant Front of House Employee of the Year:
  Holly Hill, Republic Hospitality
• Restaurant Heart of House Employee of the Year:
  Wallace Taylor, Reilley’s Grill & Bar
• Restaurant Sales/Marketing/Catering Employee of the Year:
  Whitney Haramut, Table 301 Hospitality

Lodging Categories:

• Hotelier of the Year:
  Casey Lavin, Beemok Hospitality
• Hotel Manager of the Year:
  Mitchell Martin, Dayton House Resort
• Outstanding Hotel Chef of the Year:
  Malakai Craft, Auro Hotels
• Hotel Front of House Employee of the Year:
  Abdullah Beard, Hilton Garden Inn
• Hotel Heart of House Employee of the Year:
  Jacqueline Maynard, Staybridge Suites
• Hotel Room Attendant of the Year:
  Ana Martinez De Alvarenga, Westin Poinsett
• Hotel Sales/Marketing/Catering Employee of the Year:
  Amber Cobia-Fort, Graduate by Hilton

Community & Industry Awards:

• Hospitality Educator of the Year:
  Joseph Bonaparte, International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach at HGTC
• Hospitality Supplier of the Year:
  Ecolab
• Outstanding Community Leader:
  Heath Dillard, VisitGreenvilleSC
• Outstanding Community Service Program:
  Performance Foodservice Group

All pictures from the 73rd Annual Stars of the Hospitality Industry Awards Gala can be found in our photo album.