The 13th annual QC Restaurant Week wrapped up this weekend with three area restaurant workers enjoying the limelight.
On Thursday, April 10, Visit Quad Cities continued its new Surprise a Restaurant Star initiative by honoring Natalie Souden, the assistant manager at Twin Span Brewing, Bettendorf, and Daryl Patton, a server at Rookie’s Sports Bar and Grill, Davenport. The pair were honored for their extraordinary contributions to the Quad Cities’ hospitality industry.
Ms. Souden and Mr. Patton were surprised Thursday at their workplaces – surrounded by fellow staff and patrons – with special gifts and recognition from Visit QC. The destination marketing organization hosts QC Restaurant Week. The annual week-long event runs through Sunday, April 13.
Visit QC selected the two stars from nominations received from the hospitality industry and the general public.
Here’s a taste of what their nominators had to say:
- Ms. Souden – “[Natalie has] 17 years in the service industry, most requested server, also an assistant manager at Twin Span. Has a following, always goes above and beyond and is a delight to work with.”
- Mr. Patton – “Daryl has worked at Rookie’s for 30 years. He is an extraordinary member of the Rookie’s family, impressive 30 years of service, dedication, & enjoys what he does. Rookie’s has become his second home over the years and deserves to be highlighted.”
On Friday, April 11, Visit Quad Cities continued its new “Surprise a Restaurant Star” initiative by honoring Jeff Rusk, owner of Steve’s Old Time Tap in Rock Island, for his extraordinary contributions to the Quad Cities hospitality industry.
Mr. Rusk was surprised with a special gift and recognition at his workplace on Friday, surrounded by fellow staff and patrons.
His nominator said “Jeff has owned Steve’s for 21 years (22 years in August)- always available, runs a great place. Fair prices, awesome food & amazing staff, and service.”
“Restaurant Week is a time to shine a light on the people who make our dining experiences so special,” said Lindsey Row, Director of PR & Communications at Visit Quad Cities. “From front-of-house service to behind-the-scenes prep, these individuals are the heartbeat of our hospitality community.”
Visit qcrestaurantweek.com for event details, restaurant specials, and the new QC Restaurant Week Mobile Pass experience. QC Restaurant Week is sponsored by WQAD-TV, Tri City Equipment Company and iHeart Media.
