Gregg’s Wins President’s Award at ANCHORS

PROVIDENCE, RI — RI Hospitality honored Gregg’s Restaurants & Taverns with its 2025 President’s Award during the ANCHORS Gala at the Rhode Island Convention Center Jan. 14, recognizing the family-owned restaurant group for long-standing commitment to employees and community.

RI Hospitality, a trade association headquartered at 94 Sabra St., Cranston, RI,  represents more than 800 foodservice, hotels, vendors and hospitality members and has been the voice of the hospitality and foodservice industries in the state since 1963. Its ANCHORS awards honor exceptional individuals and businesses setting standards for excellence, leadership, and service in restaurants, hotels, and tourism.

Gregg’s, a family-owned casual restaurant chain based in Warwick, is well-known for welcoming service, devoted staff and iconic desserts. The President’s Award celebrates Gregg’s legacy as a workplace where employees build meaningful, long-term careers—many spanning decades—demonstrating that hospitality is not just a job, but a profession.

The President’s Award recognizes organizations that elevate the industry and serve as models for others. Gregg’s was selected for its enduring impact on Rhode Island’s dining scene, its investment in employees, and its role in demonstrating the power of hospitality as both an economic driver and a career pathway.

More than 50 long-time Gregg’s employees, along with owners Bob, Bobbie and Rob Bacon, took the stage in celebration that Saturday.

“Gregg’s embodies what this industry is all about—family, opportunity, and genuine care for people,” said Farouk Rajab, President/CEO, RI Hospitality. “Their team members are living proof that hospitality offers fulfilling, lifelong careers. The culture created by the Bacon family has shaped generations of professionals and strengthened communities across Rhode Island.”

Governor Daniel McKee and Rajab presented the Bacons and staff with the award before an audience of more than 700 hospitality professionals, community leaders, and elected officials.

“Hospitality is about the people we serve and those who serve alongside us,” Rajab added. “Gregg’s shows what is possible when a business puts people first.”