Celebrating Diversity & Community Service

From local bistros to national chains, restaurants play an essential role in shaping communities across the nation, and creating opportunities for people everywhere. To celebrate the "best of the best" in diversity, inclusion, and community service, we are pleased to honor our state winners of the Faces of Diversity and Restaurant Neighbor award winners.

Faces of Diversity Award

This award honors champions of diversity and inclusion and restaurateurs who have achieved their American Dream. Congratulations to our 2018 state winners:

Juan Martinez
Don Juan Mex Grille

Juan arrived in the United States at age 16 with $5 in his pocket, a small bag of personal belongings, and the determination to make a better life for himself. Today, he owns and operates 4 restaurants in the Lehigh Valley. READ MORE

Atanasio "Nacho" Reyes
​Reba & Pancho's

Nacho's path in the restaurant industry illustrates the ladders of opportunity it provides. He started as a dishwasher at Mad 61 in NYC, building in position and responsibility. In 2001, he and his wife opened their own restaurant in Lewisburg, Pa. READ MORE
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Erin Zwiercan
Jack Duggan's Irish Pub

Erin's family has been in the corner pub business in Philadelphia for most of her life. She never thought she would follow suit, but here she is, operating her own corner pub in Terminal E of the Philadelphia International Airport. READ MORE

Restaurant Neighbor Award

 This award highlights outstanding local and national charitable service and philanthropy. Congratulations to our 2018 state winners:

"Community Night in honor of State Trooper Landon Weaver"

Hoss's hosted a Community Night in honor of a local Pa. State Trooper who was killed in the line of duty. It was a way for 6 restaurants to show its support and help the family of the fallen hero. READ MORE

"The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society" (Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group)

Lehigh Valley Restaurant Group - Red Robin has been involved in fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society since the passing of founder and original CEO Steve Hanzlik in 2010. READ MORE
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"Hurricane Relief Efforts & Dinner for Kids"

Metz Culinary Management raised money for a local charity near the company's headquarters in Dallas, Pa. In addition, the company sold cherry-lemonades to raise money for the Red Cross of Northeast Pa., with the proceeds going directly to those impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. READ MORE