The first 10 members of the Ivy Society were inducted in 1971 when Restaurants & Institutions inaugurated the tradition of inviting foodservice professionals to select operations that best embody the commitment to hospitality excellence.

Since then, a total of 314 foodservice operations have been nominated by past Ivy winners and voted into the Ivy Society by R&I’s readership. These operations, from across what the National Restaurant Association now estimates to be a $558 billion industry, have earned respect and admiration from their peers because of what is consistently delivered to guests.

This year we welcome six operations that are diverse in their styles and united in their dedication to providing food and service of the highest quality. The Ivy Society’s Class of ’08 members are worthy of the honor their colleagues have bestowed on them. This year’s inductees enhance what has become one of the most industry’s most-respected accolades.