Greater Columbia Restaurant Association to induct six individuals into 2023 Restaurant Hall of Fame
October 26, 2023
The Greater Columbia Chapter of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) will host its annual Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame and Benefit Dinner on Monday, November 20 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.
In celebration of greatness and perseverance, six extraordinary individuals will be honored with the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award and inducted into the 2023 Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame.
This prestigious award, exclusively reserved for the visionaries and culinary pioneers, represents the pinnacle of these individuals’ careers within Columbia’s vibrant restaurant industry. These remarkable individuals embody unparalleled long-term triumph in the face of the adversity and the distinctive nature of this respected profession. Columbia’s culinary culture is dynamic, boasting an eclectic mix of old-school favorites, international cuisine, and innovative newcomers.
“It’s always exciting to celebrate new restaurant concepts here in the Midlands, but it is a special honor to recognize the outstanding businesspeople and restaurateurs behind those longstanding favorites,” said Susan Cohen, President and CEO of the SCRLA.
This year’s Restaurant Hall of Fame inductees include:
- Clark Ellefson and Andy Rogers, Art Bar
- Scott and Lauren Goodale, Pasta Fresca
- Clint Hudson and Clay Hudson, Hudson’s Classic Catering
Named after longtime restaurateur, Rudy Fleischhacker, the Rudy Award honors an individual whose exemplary service positively impacts the Columbia restaurant industry, as Rudy’s passion to the service industry was second to none. Bill Ellen, President and CEO of Experience Columbia S.C., will be presented with the Rudy Award and honored for his exemplary service and astounding support for Columbia’s hospitality industry.
The Rising Star Award recognizes the hard work, dedication and entrepreneurship of an emerging restaurant concept here in the Midlands. Scott Middleton, Sara Middleton Styles and Greg Middleton, owners of LTC Hospitality Solutions, will be honored with the 2023 award. Their portfolio boasts a wide variety of venues, such as The Grand on Main, Good Life Café, Smoked, Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi, The Player’s Club, Robinson Room and The Venue.
Since 2006, the SCRLA has honored more than 40 restaurateurs for their achievements in the hospitality industry. Tickets begin at $75 and may be purchased at SCRLA.org/events.
About the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association
The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association is dedicated to the growth and success of the hospitality industry and its economic impact in the state through advocacy, education and innovation. The SCRLA strives to represent the best interests of its members on small business issues, hospitality and tourism concerns and towards the protection of South Carolina’s quality of life.
