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). He was also inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame at 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 honors restaurant and lodging operators as well as suppliers from across Florida for their contributions to hospitality. The Hall of Fame recognition is reserved for leaders who have demonstrated long-term dedication and influence within the industry.
Dobrikow commented on his award: “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.”
With over 30 years in hospitality management—including roles at major resorts such as Marriott’s Bay Point Resort and Hilton Palm Beach Oceanfront Resort—Dobrikow is known for his focus on team-building and service excellence. He has held community leadership positions including chairing both Broward Workforce Development Board and Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.
The FRLA serves more than 10,000 members statewide—including independent hoteliers, restaurateurs, franchises, theme parks, and suppliers—and works to protect Florida’s $112 billion hospitality sector through advocacy efforts as well as educational programs aimed at supporting its two million employees.
