The most coveted award for independent on-premise beverage operations!

Three independent restaurant and bar operators are chosen every year, by Cheers’ editorial staff, for their commitment to service excellence, training and quality drinks.

Now in its fourth year, the Cheers Benchmark Awards (Beverage Excellence for Non-Chain Hospitality Establishments) were created to honor those independent establishments that are true destinations for drinks because they are really good bars and restaurants offering great service, style and selection.

Cheers Benchmark Awards are presented in three categories: Best Wine Bar, Best Beer Bar and Best Cocktail Lounge. To qualify, entrants must be independent operators, defined as a concept operating in no more than five locations and independently owned or part of a hotel or a multi-concept restaurant company.

In reviewing the entries, the Cheers editors consider the operation’s overall concept, bar design, ambiance, level of service, beverage selection, beverage menu, specialty/signature beverages, merchandising, dedication to guest education and enjoyment and staff server training of each entrant.