I was recently in Las Vegas where I received an award, or induction to the American Academy of Chefs Hall of Fame. When I got back home and to my office, this is how I was greeted. I received letters and pictures of the staff while up in Las Vegas, and they congratulated me and showed their support. I received the award on behalf of them. Running a business or a restaurant is never a singular effort. It takes many hands, bodies, and minds. It takes a village to do what we do on a daily basis. It is the team, the people, our culture that we built together. That is what gets us our recognition. If it were not for them, this would not have happened because I do not do everything. It is because of the team's abilities that affords me the time to work on other things, and to also travel and receive the recognition on behalf of the team. When I came back the sign on the door made me smile very happy and warm, and feeling very lucky to be amongst such wonderful people that not only work hard, but care a lot. Thank you team. It is recognition for the team and for all of us, and I am truly proud of all of you, and proud to working with you. Mahalo, great awesome job!
~AW