Beverage professionals enjoy plaudits just like anyone else, so the annual presentation of the VIBE Awards to the operators with the best beer, wine, spirits, alcohol-free, responsible alcohol service, special events and menus is anxiously awaited and warmly received. This year, 13 awards were presented, and in the coming issues, we'll review the details of each award-winning program.
First, though, the winners:
For best chain or multi-concept restaurant beer program, presented by MillerCoors, the winner was Red Robin Gourmet Burgers. For best hotel, cruise line or casino beer program, presented by The Boston Beer Company, the award went to Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
For best chain or multi-concept restaurant wine program, the award, presented by Treasury Wine Estates, went to Ruth's Chris Steak House. For best hotel, cruise line or casino wine program, presented by Constellation Brands, the winner was JW Marriott Hotels.
For best chain or multi-concept restaurant spirits program, presented by Pernod Ricard USA, went to Ruth's Chris Steak House. For best hotel, cruise line or casino spirits program, presented by Tito's Handmade Vodka, went to W Hotels.
For best chain or multi-concept restaurant adult alcohol free program, presented by Finest Call, was given to Outback Steakhouse. The award for best hotel, cruise line or casino adult alcohol free program went to Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, presented by Monin Gourmet Flavorings.
The best chain or multi-concept restaurant special events Vista Award, presented by Red Bull North America, went to Hard Rock Café. The award for best hotel, cruise line or casino special events award went to Royal Caribbean International, presented by The Patron Spirits Company.
The best menu awards, in the chain and multi-concept restaurant category, went to Carolina Ale House, presented by Phillips Distilling Co. The menu award for the best hotel, cruise line or casino went to Hyatt Hotels and Resorts from Campari America.
The final award, best responsible alcohol program, was presented in the chain and multi-concept restaurant category, to Granite City Food and Brewing by the National Restaurant Association.