MONTEREY >> For the second straight year, the Fishwife Restaurant in Pacific Grove produced the winner of the coveted “Papa Vince Award” at the Monterey County Hospitality Association’s Hospitality Recognition Luncheon and Excellence in Hospitality Awards event last week.

Edgar Reyes was named the 2024 Papa Vince winner. Richard Yarnold of the Fishwife won the award in 2023. Named for the late Romualdo Vicente, a former Sardine Factory bartender and the award’s first recipient, the prize goes to an individual who excels in service, teamwork, community-mindedness and career dedication.

The luncheon and awards program is hosted by the Hospitality Association and is designed to recognize all of the outstanding individuals working in Monterey County’s hospitality industry who perform above and beyond expectation.

The awards were presented for excellence in hospitality in the areas of guest experience, community service, team player, supervisor special achievement and the Papa Vince Award.

Over 600 people attended the 35th annual MCHA Hospitality Recognition Lunch last week.

Reyes, a server for more than 30 years with Fishwife, was honored for “his exceptional skills, genuine enthusiasm for hospitality and commitment to creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere for guests and coworkers,” according to a press release from the Hospitality Association.

Reyes also received glowing customer reviews that praised his attentiveness, professionalism and personality according to the MCHA.Others who were honored included Juan Morales of the Post Ranch Inn, Jose Tena of Monterey Peninsula Country Club and Adela Gamboa of Candlelight Inn for “Focus on Guest Experience.” Arturo Hernandez of Hilton Garden Inn, won the “Supervisor’s” award. Monica Kim of the Wayside Inn won the “Community Service” award. Paula Ellis of the Monterey Marriott won the “Heart of the House” award. Roberta Martinez of the Pebble Beach Co. won the “Effective Team Player” award. Carl Smith of the Hyatt Regency Monterey won the “Humanitarian Award.”

“Professionals like these are the heart of the hospitality industry. They power many of the restaurants, attractions and retailers that make this such a great place to live, and they take great pride in their work,” said MCHA Executive Director Kristin Horton in a press release. “As an industry, we’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions.”