Celebrating Leadership in the Restaurant Industry: MR MIKES Co-CEOs Inducted into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame

On October 21, 2024, leaders and innovators from across British Columbia's restaurant industry gathered at the Italian Cultural Centre in Vancouver for the prestigious BC Restaurant Hall of Fame Gala. This annual celebration pays tribute to the visionaries who have shaped BC’s vibrant culinary landscape into one of the finest in the world. Among the evening’s honorees were MR MIKES Steakhouse Casual Co-CEOs, Mike Cordoba and Al Cave, inducted as Industry Pioneers for their outstanding contributions to the restaurant and hospitality sector.

A Legacy of Excellence

MR MIKES has been a cornerstone of the Canadian dining experience for over 60 years, offering a unique blend of great food, warm hospitality, and community-focused values. Under the leadership of Mike Cordoba and Al Cave, MR MIKES has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of Canada’s most recognized and beloved casual dining brands. Their commitment to innovation, teamwork, and excellence has not only strengthened the MR MIKES brand but also contributed significantly to the broader restaurant industry.

The Industry Pioneer award recognizes leaders whose vision and contributions inspire and elevate the restaurant landscape. As Ian Tostenson, President and CEO of the BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, noted, “The BC Restaurant Hall of Fame is about celebrating the individuals who have shaped our industry into a world-class dining destination. Mike Cordoba and Al Cave exemplify that vision through their passion, dedication, and leadership.”

The BC Restaurant Hall of Fame Gala

The Gala itself was a night to remember, starting with a cocktail reception featuring BC’s finest craft spirits and ingredients, followed by a dinner paired with exceptional BC wines. The evening celebrated not only the inductees but the remarkable depth and diversity of the province’s culinary scene.

This event, hosted by the BC Restaurant & Foodservices Association (BCRFA) , is the only Restaurant Hall of Fame in Canada. Since its inception in 2004, it has served as a testament to the creativity, hard work, and dedication of the individuals and businesses that have made BC a global leader in hospitality.

What This Means for MR MIKES Franchisees

This honor extends beyond Mike and Al; it’s a reflection of what MR MIKES represents as a brand. For franchise partners, this recognition underscores the strength of the leadership behind MR MIKES, a company that not only provides exceptional dining experiences but also fosters a supportive and collaborative franchise community.

At MR MIKES, we pride ourselves on a proven business model, strong brand recognition, and ongoing support for our franchisees. Whether it’s operational training, menu innovation, or marketing expertise, our franchisees benefit from the dedication and passion that earned Mike and Al this prestigious accolade.

Be Part of the Legacy

For aspiring restaurateurs, MR MIKES offers a unique opportunity to build a business rooted in community, excellence, and innovation. With turnkey operations, expert site selection, and ongoing support, our franchise model is designed to empower entrepreneurs and help them create their own success stories.

If you’re interested in joining the MR MIKES family and building your own legacy, reach out to us today.

A Final Toast

We’re immensely proud of Mike Cordoba and Al Cave for their well-deserved induction into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame. Their leadership inspires not only our team but also future generations of hospitality professionals. Congratulations, Mike and Al, and thank you for your contributions to our industry’s success.

Here’s to more great meals, meaningful connections, and shared successes in the years to come. Cheers! ??

For franchise opportunities and inquiries, visit mrmikes.ca/franchise.