Stars Nomination Categories
Front of the House Hospitality Employee of the Year
Non-managerial position for at least 20 hours/week and has served the industry for at least two years.
Heart of the House Hospitality Employee of the Year
Non-managerial position for at least 20 hours/week and has served the industry for at least two years.
Hospitality Department Manager of the Year
Department manager (other than General Manager) who displays outstanding leadership and managerial skills in the lodging operation and the community who has served for at least three years.
Small Hotelier of the Year
Owner/General Manager who shows exemplary customer and community service, excellence in employee relations and dedication to advancing the industry in Alabama in a lodging establishment with 150 rooms or less.
Hotelier of the Year
Owner/General Manager of a hotel with 150 rooms or more who shows exemplary customer and community service, excellence in employee relations and dedication to advancing the industry in Alabama.
Front of the House Restaurant Employee of the Year
Non-managerial position for at least 20 hours/week and has served the industry for at least two years.
Back of the House Restaurant Employee of the Year
Non-managerial position for at least 20 hours/week and has served the industry for at least two years.
Hospitality Leadership Award
This is for an individual who displays outstanding leadership in the Hotel industry that might not fit into any of the other categories, but should be recognized in the industry.
Restaurant Leadership Award
This is for an individual who displays outstanding leadership in the Restaurant industry that might not fit into any of the other categories, but should be recognized in the industry.
Best New Culinarian of the Year
Award honoring the most innovative and talented up-and-coming culinary professionals in our state - could be sous chef, new chef or supporting staff.
Restaurant Manager of the Year
General Manager who shows exemplary customer and community service, excellence in employee relations and dedication to advancing the industry in Alabama.
Chef of the Year
Executive chef who exemplifies creative culinary excellence, staff rapport and a reputation of community involvement.
Tourism Promoter of the Year
The attraction/organization/event/individual that best promotes or epitomizes tourism in Alabama.
Supplier of the Year
Business expertise and industry involvement with exceptional service and quality; history of working to advance the industry’s reputation.
*Supplier of the Year is awarded to a company.
Restaurateur of the Year
Restaurant Owner or General Manager who shows exemplary customer and community service, employee relations, and dedication to advancing the foodservice industry of Alabama.
* Special Award Categories:
Humanitarian Award*
This award is given to a restaurant, hotel, allied business or individual in recognition for their acts of a charitable nature that have left a profound and recognizable mark on the community and improves the lives of others.
Spirit Award*
For an individual that has overcome personal challenges or hardships, inspiring both their coworkers and the entire industry.
