February 1, 2017
Porter’s in the Forest at Poppy Hills Wins Golden Fork Award
Porter’s in the Forest at Poppy Hills Golf Course and award-winning chef Johnny De Vivo have earned yet another culinary honor.
In the January/February 2017 issue of Golf Inc. magazine, Porter’s was named the third place winner for Most Improved Public Food and Beverage Facility in the publication’s second annual Golden Fork Awards competition.
Editors of Golf Inc. assessed entries based on improvements in revenue, traffic, guest satisfaction, aesthetics, service, menus and capital improvements. Nominees were divided into four categories: most improved public and private facilities and new public and private facilities.
Chef Johnny De Vivo
“We are thrilled, honored and humbled to receive this award,” Poppy Hills general manager Brad Shupe said. “We strive to provide our guests and members with the best experience possible.”
During the 2014 Poppy Hills renovation, the NCGA replaced kitchen equipment, floor coverings, tables and chairs, lighting and glassware. In addition, it added a weather-protected outdoor patio to accommodate more seating.
De Vivo and his staff use only locally sourced products in aiming for a menu that is fun, sustainable and real. Menu items include house-made bacon, corned beef and pork bellies that are crafted in-house, a Korean Cheesesteak sandwich with kimchi, linguine and clams and turkey pot pie.
The success of the restaurant has translated into strong growth in the bottom line, too. Revenue has grown from $996,000 (or $21.65 per golf round), to $1.785 million (or $38.80 per round).
Porter’s can host as many as 140 guests in one of its private rooms, making it a great spot for wedding banquets, corporate dinners or appetizer-heavy cocktail parties. NCGA members who dine at the restaurant receive a 10% discount off of their tab (excluding alcohol).
First place in the Most Improved Public category went to Crossing Nines at Granite Link GC in Massachusetts, while second place went to Ring of Honor Kitchen and Bar, Five Point Patio at Cowboys GC in Texas.
Published in print and digital format six times a year, Golf Inc. delivers unparalleled reach to golf course architects, developers, owners, operators, management company executives and other industry leaders around the world.
-Jerry Stewart
