Yelp for Restaurants is announcing the winners of our inaugural Servies Awards, celebrating front-of-house restaurant employees across the United States.The Servies allowed diners and colleagues alike to recognize and celebrate front-of-house workers across eight categories: Best Host, Best Server, Best Bartender, Best Front-Of-House Team, Best Manager, Best Team Player, Best Hustle and Best Vibe.
To determine Servies Awards winners, entries were judged by a panel of restaurant industry professionals and experts who selected the best across five criteria: flexibility, positivity, knowledge, dependability and memorability. Following the selection of finalists, the public voted, and winners were selected based on who received the most public votes.
Each winner received a custom-engraved Servies trophy, a $3,000 gift card “tip” and a brand-new pair of Snibbs shoes, specifically designed for working professionals on their feet all day. Yelp for Restaurants recognizes that it takes many people to make a restaurant run, and matched that $3,000 gift to distribute amongst the rest of the staff.
The winner of Best Server was Melissa Fmura from Perko’s Cafe in Modesto, CA. She’s described as someone who can “make a regular from every table she waits on.”
Best Bartender was won by Tiffany Carroll of Hurricane Grill and Wings in Neptune Beach, FL. She’s a proud mom and fitness guru who is absolutely loved by her regulars.
Best Host was given to Felicia Tobin at Floridino’s Pizza and Pasta in Chandler, AZ. She says that “Knowing what the customers like is what [she] likes about hosting,” and it’s clear her community has felt the love.
Clayton Favela of V DTLA in Los Angeles, CA, was named Best Manager. Not only does he efficiently run a restaurant, but he creates a restaurant atmosphere where his staff feels heard and understood.
The winner of best Front-Of-House Team was Cozy Corners Tavern and Grill in Barbeau, MI. After an ownership change, this team blended new employees with “OGs” to create a fresh experience that their community loves.
Best Hustle was awarded to Aleigha Spreadbury from Walthers Twin Tavern in North Canton, OH. She started this job at a young age to pay for a trip to New York and quickly became a depended-on staple in her restaurant.
The winner of Best Vibe was Jennifer Rust of Laurelwood Public House & Brewery in Portland, OR. She’s known for keeping spirits high and never missing a chance to lighten the mood—even when staff is limited.
And finally, Best Team Player was won by Lauren Forker of Applebee’s in Benton Harbor, MI. Beyond giving guests a great experience, Lauren also goes out of her way to help her team achieve their own goals.
Yelp’s mission is to connect people with great local businesses. These awards provide an opportunity to recognize and reward hard working customer-facing staff who help keep beloved restaurants running, go above and beyond for customers and bring their positive energy to work.
For more information, please visit TheServies.com. Click here to learn more about how Yelp for Restaurants can help you seat more diners.
