Today we’d like to introduce you to Benjamin Krick.
Hi Benjamin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Moving to San Antonio at the age of 29 and traveling to 40 countries, Benjamin Krick has quickly become a world-renowned figurehead for the hospitality and beverage industry. Rising through the industry ranks from barkeep to bar owner and partner of his own hospitality firm, Houston Street Hospitality, he has been able to provide a new modern take on traditional standards and has pioneered the way with foreign flavors and new techniques.
Working under the tutelage of San Antonio’s food and beverage fixtures such as The Fig Tree, Luke, and The Esquire Tavern. Benjamin has spearheaded movements in hopes of the betterment of industry standards and the city’s reputation. Currently, Benjamin serves as an active board member of Visit San Antonio’s advisory committee and gives counsel on producing locations to increase tourism. Continuous creation of new and exciting concepts partnered with extensive staff training and the highest regard for quality, innovation, and hospitality allows for proven high-profit margins and business/brand recognition for current shareholders and future investors alike.
Benjamin Krick has been actively working in the service and hospitality business for sixteen years now. He has taken on every position within the industry that has led him to bar ownership. Born and raised in Atlanta, he has moved and lived in six US states and two countries. A true believer in continuous education with numerous certifications that back his work ethic. Benjamin has traveled to over thirty countries in means of seeking out new perspectives as well as gaining inspiration which he applies to his passions and visions regarding the beverage world.
His dedication to the craft has earned him multiple awards and mentions throughout the globe with a Top 10 placement three times from Tales of the Cocktail for best bar Central USA for his previous bar Juniper Tar along with his two current bars Jet-Setter and Pastiche. He now is on to his next vision for the city with a British-inspired pub “The Dandy.” Here he will once again use all of his worldly influences to bring another beautiful bar to life!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Some parts have been smooth and other parts have been extremely rocky. Taking the leap from working under someone’s else vision to entering the world of entrepreneurship is an emotional, mental, physical, and financial gauntlet. That being said, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’ve grown in ways I’ve never thought possible while building relationships that have continued to open doors and provide myself with new creative platforms.
The struggles come from the expectations I’ve set for myself. The road to success is in fact a lonely journey. Being told “No” time and time again, or constantly running out of funds. Until one-day things become simplified with an understanding that can only be achieved through experience. Throw in a global pandemic and the ride starts all over with new curveballs and hurdles. Though the conditioning over the years has left me highly adaptable and resilient.
I definitely take a stoic approach to life and keep a close circle of trusted advisers that have the same ambitions in their career path. Otherwise, I may have thrown in the towel a long time back. I continue to push myself forward without an end game in mind.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a highly creative individual that has always been able to believe in myself and use the unique perspectives I’ve gained through my travels all about the world. Considered an “old soul,” I view the world through a lens of simpler times. I prefer a life of quality in all forms of consumption and provide the same for anyone who decides to either work alongside what I’ve created or to support and experience such creations. My style is truly reflective of other cultures whether it’s by flavors, ingredients, design, style, presentation, technique, and overall level of service. I’m inspired by the entire world and the people who make it what it is.
Jet-Setter takes place from a time period where everyone dressed up for their flights. Add an art deco feel with international spirits that embody an airline lounge in the heart of downtown. Pastiche is driven by Art Nouveau nestled in a cozy 1930s cottage that truly transports you to the Belle Époque era. Located just East of the Alamo. The Dandy Pub which is also located on the downtown west side has a mid-century modern approach that resembles that of an authentic British pub welcoming the surrounding neighborhood.
The attention to detail, relaxed environments, and our level of hospitality is what separates us from the rest. Everything is consistent, quality-focused with a staff that is eager to please. The guests are comfortable and lose track of time while visiting!
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
HUMILITY.
To serve is to be humble. There is no room for ego, arrogance, or a condescending nature. Yes, I must constantly keep my ego in check. By remaining humble through the years, I’ve gained a trustworthy reputation. I’m proud of what I’ve done but can always be better and I’m never above asking for help.
Staying true to the vision and missions that were set in place since the beginning.
Contact Info:
- Email: Ben@Houston-Street.com
- Instagram: @Benjamin_Krick
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ben.krick.3
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.to/GtRSGDk7Tjb https://yelp.to/pnAQjHm7Tjb
