01/09/2026
❤️ The Heart of Hospitality.
Last night, Denis Lucey was named the 2026 Heart of Hospitality Award winner at the Hostplus ARCA Gala, recognising his contribution to the industry through nearly 45 years of hospitality.
And what a contribution it has been.
Denis started in hospitality at 19, learning his craft in some of Melbourne’s great dining rooms and working alongside people who helped shape the city’s restaurant culture.
Over the decades that followed, he went on to play his own part in shaping Melbourne hospitality as we know it today.
But perhaps his greatest contribution is the people.
Across almost 25 years at Bottega, and the many restaurants Denis has been part of throughout his career, countless people have come through the doors to work alongside him. He has given people opportunities, shared what he knows, backed talent and helped shape careers. Many have gone on to do extraordinary things of their own and, in turn, influence the next generation of our industry.
That legacy continues today across Bottega, Luxsmith, The Vic and Yardbird, with another generation of hospitality people learning, growing and making their mark.
It was also wonderful to celebrate alongside fellow winners Jackie Middleton and Su May Ng, and so many people who continue to make this industry what it is.
A huge thank you to ARCA for this recognition, and for celebrating the people who dedicate so much to Australian hospitality.
Nearly 45 years in, Denis is still opening restaurants, still worrying about whether the dining room is full, and still loving it.
Now that sounds like the Heart of Hospitality to us.
Congratulations, Denis. We couldn’t be prouder.
