Players Retreat Hall of Fame
Since 1951, Players Retreat has been more than a bar—it’s a community, a gathering place, and a home for memories. Every year, we honor the people who have made PR unforgettable with our PR Hall of Fame, celebrating those who embody the spirit, humor, and heart of our legendary spot.
Who Can Be Honored?
Anyone who has left a mark on PR can be recognized:
- Longtime employees and bartenders who helped shape PR’s culture
- Regulars who’ve been part of the family for decades
- Friends, fans, or local figures who bring joy, laughter, acceptance, and spirit to PR
- Even rival fans—if they’ve made an impression!
As Gus Gussler says: “This list is for people who mean a lot to PR—and PR means a lot to them.”
How It Works
- Nominations are now closed. Help us congratulate the 2026 Players Retreat Hall of Fame Inductees and stay tuned for info on how to nominate someone for 2027.
- A committee of past Hall of Fame members votes on the nominees each year.
- Inductees are celebrated at our yearly PR Hall of Fame Inductee Dinner, benefiting the Frankie Lemmon Foundation. Inductees receive a custom red PR jacket and are lovingly roasted by friends and family at the dinner. Every inductee is also added to the PR Hall of Fame plaque, proudly displayed year-round in the restaurant. It’s our way of celebrating those who make PR so special, and a reminder of the incredible people who have left their mark on our community.
Hall of Fame Members
Over the years, our Hall of Fame has celebrated countless incredible individuals—from long-time employees to local legends. Check out the PR Hall of Fame plaque below to see all of our inductees:
Whether they’re regulars, staff, or unforgettable personalities who embody the PR spirit, these members remind us what makes Players Retreat truly special. (While we are updating our plaque, you can see our 2026 inductees here.) Who will join them next?
Hall of Fame Memories
Take a Stroll Down Memory Lane With Gus & The Players Retreat Family
This photo reel captures unforgettable dinners, celebrations, and Hall of Fame moments that define Raleigh’s beloved PR. From legendary meals to milestone gatherings, these snapshots showcase the friendships, community spirit, and rich tradition that make the Players Retreat an enduring Raleigh icon.
Hall of Fame Dinner: February 2024
A special look at last year’s induction dinner—complete with toasts, laughs, and all the energy that makes PR feel like home.
Help Us Build the Digital Hall of Fame
The Hall of Fame has always been about more than plaques and red jackets—it’s about people. That’s why we’re inviting you to be part of building our new online Hall of Fame by sharing:
- Photos of your favorite PR moments
- Stories or anecdotes about past or current inductees
- Memories that highlight why PR feels like home
Your contributions will help us preserve PR’s legacy and honor the people who make it so special.
About the Frankie Lemmon Foundation
The Frankie Lemmon Foundation is a 501c3 which exists solely to support the Frankie Lemmon School and Developmental Center. They believe that ALL children, regardless of ability, are able to reach incredible heights and there is no bound to what children can do given the opportunity and resources to grow. Their roots are deep in this community. For nearly 60 years, the Frankie Lemmon School has been providing life changing therapies and educational experiences to children with special needs at no cost to their families. That’s why every year, our Hall of Fame Inductee Dinner benefits the Frankie Lemmon Foundation—so while we celebrate the people who make PR special, we’re also helping children in our community reach incredible heights.