Philip J. Hickey Jr. will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA), recognizing his extensive career and impact on the restaurant industry.
Hickey’s experience in hospitality began at Michigan State University, where he studied hospitality business and worked in food service. He co-founded Cooker Bar & Grille in Ohio by age 29 and later helped start Green Hills Grille in Nashville. His leadership roles have included serving as president of Rio Bravo Cantina, chairman and CEO of RARE Hospitality International—which owned LongHorn Steakhouse, Bugaboo Creek Steak House, and The Capital Grille—and chairman of O’Charley’s Inc.
At RARE Hospitality, Hickey led the company as it grew to more than 300 restaurants with 20,000 employees. The company’s market capitalization increased from $90 million to $1.3 billion before it was acquired by Darden Restaurants. Hickey currently chairs Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Miller’s Ale House restaurants.
Hickey is also known for his advocacy work within the industry. He co-founded the Georgia Restaurant Association, chaired the National Restaurant Association, supported academic programs at Michigan State University and Georgia State University, and served on several boards including those of the Georgia Restaurant Association, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, Georgia Tourism Foundation, and as chair of the Jimmy Carter Center Board of Councilors.
His career achievements have been recognized with awards such as IFMA Gold and Silver Plate awards, Nation’s Restaurant News Golden Chain Award, Elliot Motivator of the Year Award, and Norman (Brinker) Leadership Award.
“Phil Hickey is the embodiment of leadership, service and passion for hospitality,” said Stephanie Fischer, president and CEO of the Georgia Restaurant Association. “His vision has shaped iconic restaurant brands, his advocacy has strengthened our industry, and his generosity has touched countless lives. We are thrilled to honor him with the Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The GRACE Awards Gala will be held at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta on Monday, December 8. The event will recognize individuals across multiple categories including Restaurateur of the Year and Emerging Restaurateur of the Year. More information about the GRACE Awards can be found at garestaurants.org/GRACE.
