2 Columbia Restaurants Win State Recognition: ICYMI

We initially published this story earlier in the week and are rerunning it in case you missed it.

COLUMBIA, MD – Restaurants in Columbia sparkled at the Restaurant Association of Maryland's annual Stars of the Industry Gala this week, where the city came away with award winners in two categories.

One local eatery was honored for its altruism.

Tino's Italian Bistro and Wine Bar received the McCormick Cornerstone of the Industry Award, which goes to businesses that support communities by creating jobs and donating to nonprofits, schools, youth sports and scouts.

The restaurant at 8775 Centre Park Drive regularly hostsFoundation Nights, when 10 percent of proceeds, including from carryout and delivery orders, go to a certain organization. The list of recipients ranges from PTAs to the Columbia Clippers to the Alzheimer's Association.

Other businesses that won the award this year were Glory Days Grill locations statewide, Irish Restaurant Company in Anne Arundel County and Tabrizi's in Baltimore.

Another restaurant in Columbia was honored for having an exceptional employee who embodies the industry's gold standard for professionalism.

Victoria Gastro Pub Manager Brendan McCool won the 2016 Heart of the Industry Award, presented to a staffer who goes above and beyond to ensure smooth operations at a restaurant through teamwork and dedication.

See Also: Two Columbia Restaurant Employees Up for State Award

“The gala is our opportunity to honor and give recognition to elite restaurants across the state," Restaurant Association of Maryland President/CEO Marshall Weston said in a statement.

The Restaurant Association of Maryland, a trade association dedicated to promoting and improving the restaurant industry in Maryland, is based on Hillside Court in Columbia.

Pictured, Victoria Gastro Pub, 8201 Snowden River Parkway, Columbia. Patch File Photo.