Celebrate Excellence in the Pittsburgh Restaurant Industry

Nominate outstanding individuals and businesses for the Spirit of Hospitality Pittsburgh Restaurant Awards by May 5.

The PRLA Educational Foundation (PRLAEF) Spirit of Hospitality Pittsburgh Restaurant Awards shine a spotlight on the exceptional individuals and businesses that make the city of Pittsburgh and its surrounding counties (Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland) vibrant destinations. These awards celebrate the dedication and positive impact restaurant industry professionals have on their communities. Finalists will be honored at an event in Pittsburgh on June 16. 

Regional winners not only receive local recognition but are also automatically considered a finalists for the prestigious statewide PRLAEF Spirit of Hospitality Awards, giving your achievements a chance to shine on an even bigger stage. Celebrate excellence and inspire others—nominate today!

Award Categories

Nominations are due by May 5. Self-nominations are accepted. Finalists will be notified by May 9. Awards Ceremony will take place on June 16.

Employee of the Year

Honors a non-management employee with 2+ years of experience, who provides outstanding service to their place of employment, customers, and the community.

Manager of the Year

Honors exemplary professionalism and exceptional service by an employee in a supervisory position. Nominees are judged on showing outstanding leadership qualities and consistently adding to the success of their place of employment.

Industry Supporter

Honors an industry supporter or vendor (individual or business) with a proven reputation for quality and excellence, as well as for giving back to the community and the hospitality industry.

Rising Star

Honors an emerging leader in the restaurant industry; one who demonstrates ongoing exceptional growth, strong leadership potential, and displays notable industry involvement.

Newcomer of the Year / Best New Restaurant

Recognizes a restaurant that has been operating for fewer than 2 years but more than 6 months that has already made an impact in Pennsylvania's restaurant industry. This award will be voted on by the public.

Ready to recognize excellence? Submit your nomination today!

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.

Awards Ceremony | June 16

Help us recognize the finalists and celebrate Pittsburgh incredible restaurant community!

📍Cadence at the Strip

🗓️ June 16, 2025

🕔 5:30 - 9 p.m.

🍴Heavy hors d'oeuvres & drinks included

🎟️ Tickets: $75/person through May 5 | $90 after

BUY TICKETS NOW