On November 29, 2006 The Boston Park Plaza Hotel and Towers opened its doors to host the 2006 Boston Choice Awards. The Greater Boston Concierge Association nominated individuals and organizations that exemplified excellence in the hospitality, tourism and entertainment industries. The public was invited to vote on-line for winners in twenty-one different categories.
Following a soulful opening performance by local lounge singer, Rich DiMare, host Billy Costa from TV Diner used his charisma and wit to entertain the ballroom of guests. Ticket prices went to benefit two local charities: Triangle, which helps people with disabilities lead successful, independent lives, and Alex’s Team Foundation, which promotes research and education in pediatric oncology. Representatives from both organizations were on hand and given a chance to speak about their organizations.
Boston’s celebrities like WHDH-TV 7 anchors, Randy Price and Frances Rivera, and Boston Bruins legend, Ray Borque, were on stage to present the winners of the BCA’s. Guests also enjoyed a comedic performance by Tony V., recently named one of the "Funniest People in Massachusetts" by Showtime Television.
The presenters awarded their fellow Bostonians with a glass plaque for their efforts. Awards were given under creatively named categories inclding; "Call the Sitter", "Olive or Twist", and "New Kids on the Block". Winners included Icarus in the South End as the best romantic restaurant, Lucky’s Lounge for the best cocktail bar/lounge and Avila for a new restaurant to visit. The Boston Choice Awards also presented the prestigious "Lifetime Achievement Award" to Jody Adams, who won as the only female nominee against the well-known Todd English and Michael Schlow in the restaurant industry.
The evening’s ceremony concluded with a performance by Antje Duvekot, an up and coming female folk artist who received The Boston Music Award’s “Outstanding Folk Act of 2006.”
The clinking of martini glasses and good conversation continued the celebration at Todd English’s restaurant and bar, Bonfire, for the after party. It was a night to learn about the best of Boston and enjoy all the city has to offer.
The winners of the 2006 Boston Choice Awards:
Olive or Twist (Cocktail Bar/Lounge): Luckys
East Meets West (Asian Restaurant): Pho Republique
Small Plates: NEBO
Call the Sitter (Romantic Restaurant): Icarus
Don’t Call the Sitter (Family Friendly Restaurant): Fajitas and Ritas
Free for all (No Wallet Needed): USS Constitution
Mangia! Mangia (Italian Restaurant): Ristorante Saraceno
Ship-to-Shore (Seafood Restaurant): Turner Fisheries
Bon Appetit (French Restaurant):Mistral
Where’s the Beef? (Steak Restaurant): Oak Room
Anchor’s Way (Water Transportation): Odyssey
Front Row Center (Music, Theatre, Comedy Venue): Pavilion
Top of the Morning (Brunch or Breakfast): Upstairs on the Square
Just a Little off the Top (Hair Salon): Avanti
People and Places (Must See Neighborhoods): North End
The Open Road(Car Rental): Enterprise
New Kids on the Block (New Restaurant): Avila
Who you Gonna’ Call (Most Accommodating Host): Guy Neil, Back Bay Restaurant Group
Let’s Celebrate (Private Function Space): John F. Kennedy Library
Walk this Way (Unique Tour): North End Market Tour
Lifetime Achievement Award: Jody Adams
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