Whiskey Kitchen Co-Owners Win Restaurateurs of the Year Award
Photo credit: Eamon Queeney
Whiskey Kitchen Co-Owners Win Restaurateurs of the Year Award
During Monday night’s North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association’s (NCRLA) Stars of the Industry Awards, members of the hospitality industry celebrated Whiskey Kitchen co-owners Michael Thor and Jeff Mickel for winning the “Restaurateurs of the Year” award. Every year the NCRLA’s Stars of the Industry Awards recognizes members who have shown professionalism, leadership, outstanding service and a commitment to excellence in hospitality.
Mickel and Thor met in 2004 and became fast friends through their shared love for the food and beverage industry. They began their restaurant careers at a young age, and after gaining years of experience throughout all levels of food service operations—primarily in Raleigh, NC—they teamed up in 2014 to create a concept of their own: Whiskey Kitchen. The duo’s mission behind the restaurant was to create an environment in which both the bar and culinary programs were thoughtfully curated and given equal attention. Whiskey Kitchen was put on hold after Thor suffered a tragic motorcycle accident in 2015 that resulted in a spinal cord injury. While he was in recovery at Shepherd Center in Atlanta, GA to focus on recovery, Mickel, with the help of friends, family and the community, oversaw construction in his absence and refined the Whiskey Kitchen concept into what it is today. Thor returned to Raleigh in 2018 and now helps oversee the bar-restaurant during its day-to-day operations.
Photo credit: Eamon Queeney
Since its opening in August 2016, Whiskey Kitchen has become a popular destination for both diners and drinkers alike, both locally and from out of town. The food and drink menus continue to be refined with upscale takes on Southern classics that change based on ingredients available and in season, making it all the more exciting for patrons to stop in day after day. Whiskey Kitchen’s team of more than 70 people continually prove their dedication to hospitality through impeccable service, and their commitment to the community through support of many charitable causes, including NextStep Raleigh, a paralysis recovery and fitness center.
Photo credit: Eamon Queeney
About the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association
The North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, established in 1947, serves as the voice for advancing North Carolina’s $23 billion restaurant, foodservice and lodging industry through advocacy, support, education, savings and other resources. Folks of the industry can become members of the NCRLA to receive benefits from top quality providers. The NCRLA hosts the Stars of the Industry Awards each year to recognize outstanding members for their exemplary performance and dedication to their role.