Mickey Bakst and Steve Palmer, Ben's Friends

On today's episode of All in the Industry®, Shari Bayer's guests are Mickey Bakst and Steve Palmer, co-founders of Ben’s Friends, a national support group for members of the hospitality industry struggling with substance abuse and addiction. Mickey, who also serves as the Executive Director of Ben’s Friends, has earned the title of maître d, foodie, fundraiser, philanthropist, career restaurateur, mentor, and Charleston ambassador. He most recently and notably was the General Manager of Charleston Grill at Belmond Charleston Place, Charleston, SC. He played an essential role in helping the restaurant become one of the most acclaimed fine dining destinations in the nation. Steve is a James Beard Foundation Outstanding Restaurateur Award nominee and semifinalist for three consecutive years (’18,’19, & ’20), and the managing partner of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, a hospitality and consulting company based in Charleston, SC. Founded in 2009, the company now owns and operates more than 24 restaurants throughout the Southeastern U.S., with several upcoming projects in the works. Today's show also includes Shari's PR tip to know that you're not alone; Speed Round; Industry News Discussion on food trend predictions for 2022 , and Solo Dining experience at Chef Michael Lomonaco's Porter House Bar and Grill in Columbus Circle, NYC. 

Photo Courtesy of Steve Palmer and Mickey Bakst, Ben's Friends.

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