On Tuesday evening, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) recognized its 2025 Hospitality Stars of the Industry Hall of Fame winners at a gala held at the Henderson Beach Resort in Destin. The event also included the swearing-in of the 2026 FRLA Board Executive Committee and the new Chairman of the Board, Greg Cook of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.
“It is a privilege to honor those whose lifelong dedication has defined excellence in Florida’s hospitality industry,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “FRLA’s 2025 Hall of Fame inductees have shaped and strengthened our industry through decades of leadership, vision, and innovation. With more than 140 years of combined service, their legacy of excellence continues to inspire and set the standard for future generations of hospitality professionals. Congratulations to our outstanding Hall of Fame winners!”
The 2025 FRLA Hall of Fame honorees included Dick Rivera, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Rivera leads Suncoast Hospitality Partners in Sarasota and has over 50 years in the restaurant industry. He has held senior roles at major brands such as Darden Restaurants, Longhorn Steakhouse, TGI Friday’s, Inc., Applebee’s, and El Chico Corp. Rivera has received several industry awards and serves on multiple boards including Golden Corral Corporation and Ringling College of Art and Design. He is also a former Chairman of the National Restaurant Association.
Jordan Beckner was named Supplier of the Year. Beckner is the founding partner and President of Sales at FiberBuilt Umbrellas in Pompano Beach. Since co-founding FiberBuilt Umbrellas in 2000, he has been active in various hospitality organizations and councils.
Mike Quillen received Restaurateur of the Year honors. Quillen is President of three independent restaurant groups operating 15 locations across Florida and North Carolina under names like Gecko’s Grill & Pub and Micas Mountain Kitchen. His businesses employ over 800 people. Quillen has received multiple guest satisfaction awards and has served on several community boards.
Heiko Dobrikow was recognized as Hotelier of the Year. Dobrikow is Executive Vice President of The Las Olas Company and General Manager of Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. With more than 30 years in hospitality management, he has led various hotels and resorts and contributed to civic organizations in Broward County.
Founded in 1946, FRLA represents over 10,000 members across Florida’s hospitality sector. The association provides legislative advocacy, regulatory compliance training, food safety education through Safe Staff and RCS Training, and career-building programs for high school students via its Educational Foundation.
