Industry Award - Front of House: Robert "Frenchy" Gagne

Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House is pleased to announce that its long-time maitre d' and partner, the Frenchy, has been named to the B.C. Restaurant Hall of Fame. With the official induction celebration scheduled for April 23, 2007, Frenchy is slated to join an elite group of past honourees including Joe Fortes founder Bud Kanke, who was inducted in 2006.

"Me? I'm just a saloon keeper. It's a tremendous honour to be recognized by my peers and inducted alongside such influential figures in the industry," says Frenchy. "I certainly will be keeping good company in the Hall of Fame."

Originally from Sherbrooke, Quebec, Frenchy first honed his craft at the Beaver Club in Montreal and Vancouver's William Tell before moving to Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House in the early 90's. Since then Frenchy has made an indelible impression on the clientele at Joe Fortes, including regular guests, tourists and visiting celebrities ranging from Sharon Stone to Bobby Orr.

"I am passionate about working with people, and my work has undoubtedly enabled me to entertain a wide variety of guests," adds Frenchy. "It's all the more rewarding when our guests become regulars and we have the opportunity to get to know them on a more personal basis."