A nonprofit trade association dedicated to Florida’s hospitality industry plans to recognize a Sarasota entrepreneur as its 2025 Restaurateur of the Year.
The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association will honor Mike Quillen with the award this month and induct him into the FRLA Hall of Fame. Quillen co-founded Gecko’s Grill & Pub in 1992 and has since launched multiple hospitality groups that combined employ more than 800 workers.
The FRLA Hall of Fame Awards honor top hospitality industry professionals who provide “exceptional service” and are “recognized for their profound impact and philanthropic endeavors,” FRLA President and CEO Carol Dover says…