Whether you're just starting your career in hospitality or are finishing a shift in the weeds, tapping into what inspires you can help you stay focused to keep striving for your goals. We asked industry leaders what keeps them going.
1

"I find it very inspiring to listen to other people's stories, it has a lot of connection with what I do."

- Daniel Boulud, Chef / Owner of The Dinex Group
2

"I'm inspired by a food culture that is always evolving and the chefs who push themselves to foster that culture. I'm inspired by experiences I have when I dine out. Most importantly, I’m constantly inspired by the guests and a drive to create new and unique experiences that will blow them away."

- Megan McGannon, Service Director & Head Sommelier at Lazy Bear
3

"I find inspiration in a lot of artistic fields outside of hospitality, great authors, musicians, filmmakers -- people who are passionate about their craft and have a strong voice. Italo Calvino, Thom Yorke, and Paul Thomas Anderson all come immediately to mind."

- Watson Brown, Corporate Wine Director at Mattos Hospitality Group
4

"I find inspiration in nature, in books I read to my children, in learning, cooking and traveling, the list goes on. Inspiration can be found literally anywhere and everywhere if you are open to it."

- Sava Farah, CEO of The Pulpo Group
5

"Today is different than when I started, today my inspiration often comes from life. I look for ways to bring energy to food or life. This may come from flavor, how it is received or how it impacts the dining experience."

- Kevin Fink, Chef & Owner of Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group
6

"I am always looking to innovative people to inspire me to be better, and I try to instill that mentality in my crew as well. It’s important to be hungry in this industry – but just remember you need to be just as hungry for the knowledge as you are for the food."

- Katherine Rushing, Owner of Briny Swine Smokehouse & Oyster Bar and Ella & Ollie’s
7

"My wife and daughter inspire me to continue in this industry. There are so many chefs that I watch and appreciate, but I want to be my best so my family can do what they want to."

- Gregory Collier, Chef / Owner of Leah & Louise