LAKE CHAMPLAIN — Linda Harmon and Doug Mack, who own and operate Mary’s Restaurant at Baldwin Creek on Route 116 in Bristol, were named Vermont Restaurateurs of the Year at the Vermont Chamber Hospitality Gala that set sail on the Spirit of Ethan Allen III on Sept. 12.
Celebrating individuality and achievement, the gala departed from the Burlington waterfront for a scenic evening networking cruise on Lake Champlain, emceed by WCAX-TV’s Gina Bullard.
In addition to honoring Harmon and Mack, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce presented awards to three other “stand out” members of Vermont’s tourism industry:
•  Borden Avery Innkeeper of the Year: Mark Avery, Lake Morey Resort, Fairlee.
•  Chef of the Year: Chef Zachary Reid, Brown’s Market Bistro, Groton.
•  Allied Member of the Year: Bill Ackerman, Vermont Country Store, Weston, Rockingham/Manchester Center.
These individuals, recognized for their exceptional dedication and commitment to high standards in Vermont’s tourism industry, were honored at the creative black tie Vermont Hospitality Gala.
“The Vermont tourism industry is a vast network of partnerships,” Chamber President Betsy Bishop noted. “We are delighted to honor our award winners, as together we advance tourism in Vermont.”
In recognizing Harmon and Mack, the chamber wrote:
“This award honors restaurateurs who continue to demonstrate excellence in the operation and management of a restaurant in Vermont. Since 1983 Doug and Linda have offered seasonal, creative and eclectic menus with an emphasis on local products. Farm-fresh foods from their gardens and small, local farms have been the framework upon which their culinary magic is built.
“Doug and Linda have a gift for connecting folks to their food. By featuring creative events such as the Farmhouse Dinner Series, Doug and Linda offer their patrons an opportunity to experience local foods and to meet the restaurant’s loyal suppliers.”