The Judging Process
The Golden Plate Awards is more than a rigorous and transparent consumer guide. It helps the hospitality industry to continuously improve performance and value for money
Any eatery or cocktail bar in Regional Victoria can compete if they’ve been nominated by the public. They are then judged twice without notice over several months by independent and experienced food reviewers.
Restaurateurs receive reports from the customer point of view that identify strengths and opportunities to add-value.
Special attention is paid to:
- Food quality & presentation (% depends on type of venue)
- Customer service (20% of total scores)
- Value for money (20% of total scores)
- Use of local foods and wines (% depends on type of venue)
- Coffee and tea (% depends on type of venue)
- Ambience (10% of total scores)
Seven Venue Categories are recognised:
- Restaurants – contemporary dining
- Restaurants – casual dining
- Hotel Dining
- Licensed Cafes
- Unlicensed Cafes
- Cellar Door Eateries
- Cocktail Bars
Eight Special Recognition Awards:
- Best Chef (decided by cook-off at Comcater’s showrooms in Pope Street South. Melbourne)
- Best Coffee
- Best Customer Service
- Best Front of House Person
- Best Cellar of Local Wines Beers and Ciders
- Best Menu of Local Foods
- Best Value for Money
- Peoples’ Choice Award (decided by popular votes)
