Maria Muhs of Rastrelli’s Restaurant in Clinton was named the Iowa Restaurant Association’s 2014 Restaurant Employee of the Year. Muhs accepted the award at a ceremony hosted by the Iowa Restaurant Association at the Renaissance Savery Hotel on September 25. “There are more than 143,000 restaurant employees in the state of Iowa,” said Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association. Dunker pointed to the fact that Muhs, a 15+ year team member, is asked for by name from Rastrelli’s patrons, and that those who know her rave about her special salads. “Maria is this year’s best of the best. She is an excellent representative of the state’s hospitality industry.” The honor was presented to Muhs by the Chairmen of both the Iowa Restaurant Association and National Restaurant Association Board of Directors. This year, the family-owned restaurant celebrated 75 years of business with many of its long-time employees and devout patrons. ### Iowa Restaurant Association The Iowa Restaurant Association is an advocacy organization supporting Iowa’s industry with educational and promotional programs across the state. www.restaurantiowa.com Media Contacts: Katelyn Kostek Public Relations Specialist Iowa Restaurant Association kkostek@restaurantiowa.com 515-276-1454