Celebrate the Best in Pittsburgh Restaurant Industry — Get Your Tickets Now!
Join us for an unforgettable evening honoring the individuals and businesses who make the Pittsburgh region a top dining destination. The Spirit of Hospitality Pittsburgh Restaurant Awards shines a spotlight on restaurant professionals who go above and beyond to elevate our industry.
Awards Ceremony | June 16
Help us recognize the finalists and celebrate Pittsburgh's incredible restaurant community!
📍Cadence at the Strip
🗓️ June 16, 2025
🕔 5:30 - 9 p.m.
🍴Heavy hors d'oeuvres & drinks included
🎟️ Tickets: $90/person
Finalists will be recognized during the evening, and regional winners will advance as finalists for the statewide PRLAEF Spirit of Hospitality Awards this November.
Proceeds benefit the PRLA Educational Foundation, which supports both current and future hospitality professionals across Pennsylvania through workforce development and education.
Don't miss this chance to raise a glass to the people who make Pittsburgh's restaurant scene shine!
Award Finalists
Employee of the Year
- Tabatha Barnaba, Carmella's Plates & Pints
- Dee Domine, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
- Pedro Epitacio, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
- Lyra Hartlein, Carmella's Plates & Pints
- Madi Mustello-Bryant, Balvanera
Manager of the Year
- John Bellan, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
- Bekah Coffey, Space Bar
- Dennis Denk, Ruth's Chris Steak House Pittsburgh
- Bill Kohl, Balvanera
- Beverly Ringling, Restaurant Holdings
Industry Supporter
- Michael Blackwell, Café on the Corner
- John DeMauro, Urban Tap
- Bob McCafferty, North Country Brewing Co.
- Kristen Puccetti, Samuels Seafood Co.
Rising Star
- Nathan Budai, DiAnoia's Eatery
- Juan Grimaldo, Totopo
- Cory Kubiak, Bar Marco
- Chloe McMullen, Deejays BBQ
- Angelina Watson, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
Newcomer of the Year / Best New Restaurant
This award will be determined by the public. Voting takes place through May 30. Cast your vote and share the link to support your favorite new establishment in Pittsburgh!
- Balvanera
- Fet-Fisk
- Golden Gai Izakaya
- Maggie's Farm Distillery South Hills
- Nothingman
- Polska Laska
- Solera Wine Co.
- The Brinery
- Wild Rosemary Bistro
Group tickets are available if you're planning on attending with colleagues or supporters.
Congratulatory ads are available in the printed event program—perfect for businesses, friends, or family to recognize a finalist in a meaningful way.
View the Celebration Event Media Kit to learn more about both group ticket sales and congratulatory ads.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Celebrate Excellence. Elevate Your Brand. Support the Future of Hospitality.
The Pittsburgh Area Spirit of Hospitality Awards offers a variety of sponsorship packages, each with their own unique benefits. As a sponsor, your business will gain premium visibility among key industry decision-makers while supporting the PRLA Educational Foundation, which provides scholarships and career development opportunities for the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Sponsorship Levels
Diamond Sponsor (exclusive)
$5,000
This exclusive level includes 8 event tickets, opening remarks, an opportunity to present an award, a full page ad with premium placement in the event program, and recognition at the state awards program in November.
Gold Sponsor (4 available)
$2,500
The gold level includes 4 event tickets, an opportunity to present an award, and a half-page ad in the event program.
Silver Sponsor (10 available)
$1,000
The silver level includes 2 event tickets and a quarter-page ad in the event program.
Awards Nominee Benefactor
$500
This level includes the donation of 2 gala tickets for an individual award nominee.