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, commented on Dobrikow’s recognition: “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 award is reserved for leaders whose long-term service has had a significant impact on the industry.
Dobrikow responded to his induction 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 leadership roles at various 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.
In addition to his business roles, Dobrikow has served as chair for organizations including Broward Workforce Development Board and Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. He previously led FRLA’s Broward Chapter and has participated in several civic initiatives. His achievements have earned him multiple recognitions such as being listed among Florida Trend’s Top 500 Most Influential Leaders.
Dobrikow was born in Germany before moving to the United States at age 17. He holds a BA from University of Kansas.
The FRLA represents more than 10,000 members across hotels, restaurants—including independent businesses—and major franchises throughout Florida. Established in 1946 through a merger between two associations in 2006 (the former Florida Restaurant Association with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association), it provides advocacy work on behalf of its members along with training programs focused on regulatory compliance and food safety through Safe Staff and RCS Training subsidiaries. Its educational foundation offers high school programs aimed at building careers within hospitality statewide.
