Today we’d like to introduce you to Dino Katris.
Dino, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Being born and raised in the restaurant business, upon graduation from De Paul University in 2003 with a degree in Finance, I came back home to Antioch, Illinois to take over Las Vegas Restaurant. Then, a 24-hour “greasy spoon,” we renovated, shifted our focus to breakfast and lunch, and changed the name to The Vegas Cafe.
In 2009, I had the opportunity to venture out with various partners to start Lucky Star Pub & Eatery in Burlington, WI.; a Southwest-themed restaurant, offering traditional American and authentic Mexican cuisine.
A few years past, and we had yet another opportunity for growth; expanding to Kenosha, WI, In 2010, La Fogata Mexican Grill was born, which features traditional Mexican fare, an extensive tequila selection, and a contemporary dining experience.
Our newest restaurant, which opened in 2016, Waterfront Warehouse, is a gastropub, focusing on gourmet burgers, organic salads, and flatbreads, and offers 26 beers on tap and an extensive wine list.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a successful business owner and a business partner have many different paths and winding roads, but I’ve found the key to success follows three important virtues:
– Sacrifice
– Hard work
– Respect
Some of the struggles include: Work/life balance (non-existent) and time management.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Roots Hospitality Group (i.e La Fogata Mexican grill, Waterfront Warehouse, Lucky Star Pub & Eatery, The Vegas Cafe) – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Roots Hospitality was built on the foundation of providing an exceptional guest experience. We do this by providing quality meats and fresh produce, never comprising quality due to price fluctuations. Our vigorous staff training program helps us better understand our guests and creates a unique dining experience every time.
What sets us apart is that we actually do care. We understand the only reason we are around is because our guests have chosen to dine with us. They appreciate and feel the genuine hospitality provided by our amazing staff.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Sky’s the limit
Pricing:
- Vegas Cafe ($5-$15 per person)
- Lucky Star Pub & Eatery ($5-$25 per person)
- La Fogata MexicanGrill ($9-$25 per person)
- Waterfront Warehouse ($9-$25 per person)
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.rootshospitalitygroup.com/
- Phone: (262) 960-1904
- Email: dino@rootshg.com
Image Credit:
Zach Timm Marketing Solutions, Dancing in the Rain Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
