Join Hospitality Minnesota at Stars of the Industry Awards to Honor Hall of Fame Inductee John Schiltz

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – (November 17, 2025) – Hospitality Minnesota is preparing for its annual Stars of the Industry Awards, where it will recognize exceptional leadership and dedication within the state’s restaurant, lodging, resort and campground sectors. Among the three individuals being honored this year with induction into the Hospitality Minnesota Hall of Fame is John Schiltz, the proprietor of Lake Elmo Inn and a long-time champion of the Minnesota hospitality community.

From Dishwasher to Icon: John Schiltz’s Enduring Legacy

John Schiltz’s career is a testament to the growth and opportunity inherent in the hospitality industry. His journey began humbly as a dishwasher in 1972. Following culinary school, his talent and dedication saw him rise rapidly, becoming Hyatt’s second youngest Executive Chef at the age of 25.

In a decisive move that would define his professional life, Schiltz opened the Lake Elmo Inn on December 1, 1983, at the age of 27. Through a laser-focus on excellence, commitment to high food quality, and the cultivation of a truly hospitality-minded staff, the Lake Elmo Inn has become an iconic institution, successfully celebrating 42 years of continuous operation.

Schiltz’s dedication to the industry remains undiminished. Rather than retiring, he continues to evolve, supporting the St. Paul community with the opening of 1881 Eating House by Lake Elmo Inn in Union Depot. This eatery embodies his belief that a meal should serve as a pause in the day—a moment for comfort and connection.

Leadership and Philanthropy

Beyond the kitchen and dining room, John Schiltz has distinguished himself through profound community engagement and industry leadership.

His philanthropic efforts include being a founding member of the Lake Elmo Rotary and, alongside his wife Christine, opening the Lake Elmo Event Center in 2006. Notably, he founded the Valley Vine & Harvest Throwdown in 2008, a respected chef’s competition and fine wine event that raises funds for Canvas Health.

Schiltz has been an active and proud member of Minnesota’s restaurant associations since 1984. He dedicated years of service to the industry's governance, serving on the board and later as the Chair of the Minnesota Restaurant Association (MRA). His commitment continued through the merger that resulted in the creation of Hospitality Minnesota in 2020. He also held leadership roles as President of the Twin Cities Originals for three years and served on the Board of the Council of Independent Restaurants of America.

Hospitality Minnesota is honored to recognize Schiltz’s decades of profound achievements and contributions both to the dining experience and to the associations that have served the industry over the years.

Last Call for Stars of the Industry Gala Seats

The Stars of the Industry Awards is our industry's annual opportunity to honor extraordinary careers, including John Schiltz’s inspirational journey, and celebrate the best of Minnesota’s hospitality professionals.

Due to high demand to honor this year’s inductees, tickets for the ceremony are extremely limited and are expected to sell out weeks before the event. Hospitality Minnesota strongly encourages all interested industry members and supporters to secure their registrations without delay.

The event details are as follows:

• Event: Hospitality Minnesota Stars of the Industry Awards
• Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2025
• Location: The Lofton Hotel, Downtown Minneapolis