Guests mingled over drinks and canapés at Doltone House in Darling Island Wharf, before the ceremony kicked off about 7pm.
The major awards were picked up by:
- Garfish in Manly won the Consumer Vote Award
- Commonwealth Bank of Australia in Sydney took home the Caterer of the Year
- Quay in The Rocks was named Restaurant of the Year
- Peter McCloskey won the Hall of Fame – Individual
- Our Big Kitchen was named Hall of Fame – Community Service
- Sam Christie was crowned Restaurateur of the Year
- Greg Doyle took out the Lifetime Achiever
Commonwealth Bank of Australia in Sydney and Quay in The Rocks wowed the judges in more than one category.
In addition to their major awards, Quay in The Rocks was crowned Fine Dining Restaurant and Commonwealth Bank of Australia in Sydney took out Boardroom Caterer.
Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) CEO John Hart congratulates all of the winners, especially those who went home with numerous plates to demonstrate professionalism and excellence in their field.
"The winners should be proud that they have excelled in a rigorous system, where nothing goes unnoticed – a big congratulations to the operators of Commonwealth Bank in Sydney and Quay in The Rocks, who wowed the judges in more than one category," said Mr Hart.
Chair Judge Kate McGhie says the Savour Australia Restaurant & Catering HOSTPLUS Awards for Excellence is important to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in food and service standards.
"The Awards for Excellence look at the entire dining experience, rather than a single food or service dimension," said McGhie.
The winning businesses will now compete at the National Savour Australia Restaurant & Catering HOSTPLUS Awards for Excellence to be held at Peninsula Docklands on Monday 27th October 2014.
Through a new partnership with Melbourne Food and Wine, the night of nights will bring attendees the freshest and finest Victorian produce and prized wine to support the Put Victoria on Your Table campaign.
R&CA CEO John Hart says in addition to the traditional categories, the national event will also see a new and exciting focus on training and development.
"New to the program this year - the Innovative Workplace Training Award will reward innovative approaches to the skills development of staff", said Mr Hart.