RESTAURANT INDUSTRY AWARDS

​Recognizing Outstanding Community Service and Determination

We have one of the most charitable industries in the country and our industry provides millions of individuals from all walks of life for the chance to realize their American Dream. Each year, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) honors restaurateurs that embody these values and principles through its signature award program. This year, Elephants Delicatessen was one of three national recipients for the Restaurant Neighbor Award for committing to community service and sustainability in the restaurant industry. They were honored during a special VIP dinner in Washington, D.C. on March 4, 2020 where they received a $10,000 contribution in their name to support the charitable organization or program of their choice.

Congratulations to our 2020 Oregon restaurant award finalists:
​RESTAURANT NEIGHBOR AWARD [National Winner]
Elephants Delicatessen, Portland
At 8 stores, Elephants Delicatessen is an integrated part of the community. Founded in 1979, the locally owned chain was one of the first pioneers in recognizing the opportunity restaurants have to reduce food waste and help educate consumers. Elephants’ model is dedicated to sustainability, managing food waste and supporting local nonprofits with daily donations and volunteering. The company donates approximately 95 percent of their leftover fresh food items. In 2015, Elephants Deli became a Certified B Corporation, and in 2018 and 2019 was honored with a B Corp "Best for the World" Changemakers Award for their continuous improvement in and dedication to community service, environmental protection, and employee well being. “Restaurant have the unique ability to help the communities that we are part of,” said Anne Weaver, CEO, Elephants Delicatessen. “We strive to be a good neighbor, not just to our customers and staff, but to the planet.” 
​​RESTAURANT NEIGHBOR AWARD [State Winner]
​Sybaris Bistro, Albany
“Restaurants by definition serve the public,” said Janel Benett, co-owner of Sybaris Bistro in Albany. “It makes sense for restaurants at any level to strive to better the community in which they operate.” Sybaris has proudly taken on that challenge, organizing and hosting fundraisers for programs like FISH, the ABC House, Boys & Girls Club, SNAP Program, Albany Public Library, and the Albany Carousel to name a few. “We have found that people want to help charities, but most don't have the money to write a check that would make a big difference. When we propose a fundraiser, it gives people an opportunity to donate their time, talent or products to produce a dinner that could raise a great deal of money for the charity of choice.” Sybaris helps raise several thousands of dollars annually for charity since they opened 19 years ago. “People want to help. We give them an occasion to jump in and join us in making a difference for our town.”
​FACES OF DIVERSITY AWARD [State Winner]
​Loretta Guzman, Owner, Bison Coffee House

Loretta Guzman is a Shoshone-Bannock tribal member, born and raised in Portland. She has met and overcome many obstacles, adversities and challenges throughout her life including cancer. She has worked hard to fulfill her dream of opening a storefront that would allow her to not only showcase her culture, but also serve as a meeting place for Native Americans and other community groups. "For me the American Dream is what I have worked for, what I have created, what I have built, and a place I can be myself and use my life experiences to help myself and others if and when needed," said Loretta. The Coffee House serves as a place Loretta can celebrate her culture, create a positive environment, and provide support to those in her community. 
​FACES OF DIVERSITY AWARD [State Winner]
​Lauro Romero, Executive Chef, Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group

​Chef Lauro grew up on a small farm in Mexico where the “local and seasonal” ethos comes naturally. Lauro credits his mother with stoking his passion for cooking, launching a career that began when he got his first restaurant job in Salt Lake City at just 14. Since then, he’s worked his way up the ranks at restaurants, eventually becoming Executive Chef at Portland’s Three Degrees. Today, Lauro instills his farm-grown sensibility in his own restaurant, King Tide Fish & Shell. “Lauro has not only lived out the American Dream but also the culinary dream that many do, growing up around food he loves and now bringing it to the table with passion for others to enjoy,” added Alex Thompson, Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group.
​FACES OF DIVERSITY AWARD [State Winner]
Jason Devrouax, Chef/Owner, First Burger
Owning his own restaurant was a dream come true for Jason Devrouax, one that he worked hard for and overcame many challenges in order to achieve. Leaving behind a challenging past in California, Jason moved to Oregon and started culinary classes at Linn-Benton Community College. While Jason had some cooking experience in California, it was the opportunity to work with incredible chefs like Sybaris owner Matt Bennett (who created First Burger) that really helped Jason set a course for success. In October 2017, Jason and his wife purchased First Burger. Now, he gets to be the mentor for young kids coming into this industry. “When I look at my accomplishments, I am most proud that I own my own restaurant. I get to be creative and do fun events,” said Jason. He goes out of his way to hire kids right out of high school and frequently donates his time and skills to local fundraisers whenever the need arises. “Without the support of our family and friends my wife and I wouldn’t have accomplished as much as we have.”

​Read press release.
AMBASSADOR OF HOSPITALITY [State Winner]
Paul Paz, Server, Oswego Grill; Owner, WaitersWorld
This year marks the 40th anniversary as a professional waiter for Paul Paz, a celebration of his passion and dedication for his “industry of choice.” A champion of hospitality, Paul has been sought out by industry leaders to train their employees in customer service, he authored two books on restaurant service, and founded his own company, WaitersWorld, that led to consulting opportunities across the states. “What I love the most about my restaurant life is being able to tell my guests, ‘yes’ and create a memorable experience for them,” said Paul. “Serving others is honorable... Serving others well makes a better world.” Paul’s involvements in the industry have spanned from tableside service to serving on the Education Foundation’s Board of Trustees. “Our industry is one of unlimited entrepreneurial opportunity that enables me (and many others) to serve thousands of guests across Oregon… for that I am forever grateful.”
NRAEF created the Restaurant Neighbor Award​ with founding partner American Express to highlight the positive contributions restaurants make in their local neighborhoods each and every day. State finalists from across the U.S. compete for the top national awards and a chance to win $10,000 to continue their charitable works. The Faces of Diversity American Dream Award honors individuals from a diverse background who, through hard work and determination, have realized their American dream. The Ambassador of Hospitality Award is the premier award bestowed to a person who shows extraordinary achievement and exemplary leadership in the restaurant and hospitality industry. The recipient reflects the NRAEF’s mission and uses his/her leadership to enhance the stature of the industry through community service and philanthropy. ​
Jason Devrouax
Jason Devrouax, First Burger