Catering By Design Secures Multiple Honors at the WRAL Voters’ Choice Awards
Catering By Design, a prominent food service provider based in the Triangle area of North Carolina, has once again established its reputation as a leader in the local culinary industry by winning multiple awards at the 2024 WRAL Voters’ Choice Awards. The event, which recognizes excellence in various sectors based on public votes, highlights the most esteemed businesses and their contributions to the community.
Phillip Lin, the owner and mastermind behind Catering By Design, has been recognized not only for his business acumen but also for his leadership skills, receiving the prestigious Boss of the Year award. Under his stewardship, the company clinched additional accolades, including Employer of the Year, Caterer of the Year, and the coveted title of Best Sweet Tea. These awards underscore the company’s commitment to quality service and community engagement.
Lin’s journey to success is intriguing and illustrative of the American dream. Raised in Forest City, North Carolina, Lin often humorously remarks that his family was the sole Asian household in Rutherford County. From a young age, he worked in his family’s Chinese restaurant, an experience that laid the groundwork for his culinary passion. Following his graduation from Gardner-Webb University with a degree in mathematics, Lin ventured to the Triangle in the early 2000s, where he carved out a successful career in the tech industry, working for renowned companies such as IBM, Nortel, and SAS.
In a noteworthy endeavor that extends beyond Catering By Design, Lin has also played a pivotal role in launching Howdy Homemade Ice Cream in Cary. This initiative is particularly significant, as Howdy’s mission focuses on providing employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities and Down syndrome, fostering an inclusive work environment that embraces diversity.
In addition to his business achievements, Lin has made strides in the digital realm, earning second place in the social media influencer category for his popular account, “One Bad Asian.” His online presence not only showcases his culinary ventures but also advances conversations on cultural identity and diversity within the community.
As the WRAL Voters’ Choice Awards continue to spotlight local talent and businesses, Catering By Design stands out not just for its culinary excellence but also for its broader commitment to community support and social responsibility. For a comprehensive list of this year’s winners and further insights, the full results can be found on the WRAL website.
