All winners of Gold and Silver Plate Awards are inducted into the Gold & Silver Plate Society.  

 

As members, they receive exclusive invitations to association events and other activities, are asked to participate in future Award Celebrations, and serve as pre-screen judges for the Silver Plate selection process each year.  

 

Society members are often consulted on upcoming activities and initiatives by the association team and board of directors. Their insights and expertise continue to drive innovation and excellence in foodservice. 

 

Many extraordinary individuals have been in the Gold & Silver Plate Society 

 

Founders of Iconic Chains 

 

From Panera Bread’s Ron Shaich (2005) to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse’s Ruth Fertel (1995) and Bob’s Big Boy’s Robert Wian (1959). 

 

CEOs of Leading Brands 

 

 

 

Past winners include executives from Dunkin’, Wendy’s, Eat’n Park, Buffalo Wild Wings, Denny’s, First Watch, Olive Garden, Golden Corral, and more. 

 

Independent Visionaries 

Industry legends such as Danny Meyer, Wolfgang Puck, Charlie Trotter, “21” Club’s Jerry Berns, and New Orleans’ Ralph Brennan have earned their place in the Society. 

 

Pioneers Across Foodservice Segments 

 

From schools and hospitals to convenience stores, amusement parks, and hotels, dozens of Society members have transformed how America dines. Their impact is felt in every community nationwide.

 

 
Selection Process 

Every year, IFMA The Food Away from Home Association puts out a call and receives a large slate of nominations from its membership and the industry for Silver Plate Awards. This year, we made revisions to the form, simplifying the process – and resulting in a larger number of candidates!  

Gold & Silver Plate Society
Society members, comprised of past Gold and Silver Plate winners, gather annually at the Gold & Silver Plate Awards Celebration in Chicago. During this time members welcome a new class of award recipients in addition to reconnecting with past winners.