Join Hospitality Minnesota in Honoring Hall of Fame Inductee Steve Benowitz at this year's Stars of the Industry Awards

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – (December 1, 2025) – Hospitality Minnesota is preparing for this Thursday's 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 Steve Benowitz, Founder of Craft and Crew Hospitality. Steve's acheivements as a lifetime hospitality innovator with amibitous yet calculated business acumen and entrepreneurship sets him apart. 

A Lifetime of Dedication to Hospitality

Steve Benowitz is being recognized for a remarkable five-decade career dedicated to being a visionary and cornerstone of Minnesota’s hospitality industry. In 1976, at just 22, he took the bold risk of investing his life savings into purchasing his first bar, setting the stage for a lifetime of entrepreneurship and community building.

Steve's vision is rooted in creating gathering spaces that are fundamental to their neighborhoods. His commitment is focused on consistently establishing establishments that feel like enduring fixtures, welcoming patrons with great food and a genuine sense of belonging, which is the cornerstone of his success.

A Hospitality Community Trailblazer

Steve demonstrated grit and foresight by expanding his portfolio to include iconic establishments like the 331 Club and the subsequent transformation of properties into food-forward concepts like the Rail Station Bar and Grill and Pub 819. His tenacity was highlighted when he opened Hopkins Tavern during the national uncertainty of September 11, 2001.

Beyond building successful businesses, Steve's influence is deeply rooted in mentorship and legacy. He actively transitioned into a founder and mentor role with Craft & Crew Hospitality, where his innovative ideas and early philosophies continue to shape the company’s culture and growth alongside his son, David, and their partners. His impact is felt in the countless employees he has mentored and the communities he has enriched.

Stars of the Industry Registration has closed.

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

Due to high demand to honor this year’s inductees, individual registration is now closed. Reach out to Andrea for more information.