EP 69: Greg Root

Greg Root, Partner at Defined Hospitality, shares his journey from a 13-year-old golf caddy to helping lead one of Philadelphia's most celebrated restaurant groups. He reflects on cultivating an early career at Burger King, the invaluable lessons from his 13-year tenure at STARR Restaurants, and how those experiences prepared him for restaurant ownership. Greg also discusses Defined Hospitality's role in transforming Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood through passion projects including Suraya, Pizzeria Beddia, and the 2026 James Beard Award-winning Kalaya, revealing how shared values, intentional growth, and a people-first philosophy have fueled the group's lasting success. Links \- Instagram - Greg Root: https://www.instagram.com/greg\\root/ \- Instagram - Culinary Agents⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/culinaryagents/ \- Full Transcript⁠: https://hospitalitycareerpaths.com/resources/ep-69-greg-root \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\** Remember, success looks different for everyone in hospitality. No two paths are the same. If you have a leader or a topic you want to hear about, email media@culinaryagents.com. Hospitality On The Rise is brought to you by Culinary Agents, connecting top talent with employers since 2012. Whether you’re hiring or looking for your next opportunity, join us at CulinaryAgents.com. For more inspiration, subscribe to Hospitality On The Rise and visit HospitalityCareerPaths.com, a free platform by Culinary Agents. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to like, follow, and subscribe. And if you loved this episode, share it with someone who could use a little inspiration.