Best Outdoor Experience (including rooftop bars)

JUDGING (100% ANONYMOUS SITE INSPECTION)
*ELIGIBLE FOR ENTRY INTO THE AHA NATIONAL AWARDS

JUDGING FUNDS REQUIRED: Funds for drinks and bar snacks for two adults must be provided to cover the cost of judging.

OVERVIEW

This category recognises a hotel’s outdoor space; rooftops, beer gardens, outdoor terraces, decks, and courtyards are all eligible to enter.

GENERAL CRITERIA

• Décor and design characteristics
• Condition of furniture, fittings and electrical
• Popularity of the establishment

BAR CRITERIA

• Professionalism and outstanding customer service
• Staff neat, clean attired and well groomed
• Bar presentation to be of the highest standard
• Availability of a selection of food
• Comfortable and positive experience for customers
• Beverage experience and offerings (presentation, accuracy, appearance, variety, and quality)
• Hygiene and cleanliness

EXPERIENCE CRITERIA

• Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
• Staff friendliness and knowledge
• Knowledge and implementation of RSA
• Efficiency of operations throughout the experience

MARKETING CRITERIA

• In-house promotions on offer
• Website – ease of search, use and finding information
• Engagement on social media

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE CRITERIA

• External and internal approach of venue and outdoor space
• Variety and quality of furniture styles are relevant to outdoor area and integration with rest of hotel
• Facility complies with tobacco legislations
• Styled to accommodate patrons who wish to smoke
• Visible and clear signage (directional, smoking, and non-smoking areas, bar, restrooms)
• Suitability of all weather conditions, including adequate heating and cooling facilities, shade, and rain cover
• Proximity to service areas and amenities (bar, food, restrooms)
• Adequate safety and security
• Staff presentation and quality of interaction (easily identifiable e.g., uniform or name tag)
• Hygiene and cleanliness (adequate disposal of smoking litter, glassware, rubbish, and restrooms)

2024 WINNER – Terrigal Hotel, Terrigal