Heiko Dobrikow, Executive Vice President of The Las Olas Company and General Manager of The Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, has been named the 2025 Hotelier of the Year by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA). Dobrikow was also inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame during the Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala held at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, stated: “Heiko Dobrikow represents the heart and spirit of Florida’s hospitality industry – a dedicated professional whose passion for people, pursuit of excellence, and commitment to service have left an enduring mark on our state. For more than three decades, Heiko has led with purpose and humility, proving that true leadership is rooted in service to others. His commitment to excellence, mentorship, and community has not only elevated the Riverside Hotel and The Las Olas Company but has also strengthened Florida’s entire hospitality family. It is our great honor to welcome Heiko into the FRLA Hall of Fame and celebrate him as our 2025 Hotelier of the Year.”
The annual gala recognizes restaurant and lodging operators as well as suppliers across Florida for their achievements in hospitality. The Hall of Fame distinction is given to leaders whose long-term service and dedication have significantly influenced Florida’s hospitality sector.
Dobrikow responded to his recognition by saying: “I am deeply honored to be recognized as the 2025 Hall of Fame Hotelier of the Year by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of the incredible people who make Florida’s hospitality industry thrive every day. Servant leadership has always been my guiding principle — leading by lifting others, empowering teams, and creating meaningful experiences for our guests and communities. I remain fully committed to serving our industry with gratitude, integrity, and a shared vision for a stronger, more connected Florida hospitality family.”
Dobrikow brings over 30 years’ experience in hospitality management. His career includes positions at major resorts such as Marriott’s Bay Point Resort, Fisher Island Hotel & Resort, Casa Marina Resort, Mayfair Hotel & Spa, Radisson Deauville Beach Resort, and Hilton Palm Beach Oceanfront Resort. He is known for his approach focused on servant leadership—developing teams while improving organizational performance.
In addition to his business roles, Dobrikow has chaired local organizations like Broward Workforce Development Board and Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as leader within FRLA’s Broward Chapter among other civic contributions. His work has earned recognition from groups such as Florida Trend’s Top 500 Most Influential Leaders.
The FRLA represents over 10,000 members statewide including independent hotels/restaurants as well as larger franchises and suppliers. Founded in 1946—and expanded after merging with another association in 2006—the organization advocates for its members’ interests through legislative action while offering compliance training programs for food safety through its subsidiaries.
