From Hostess at Chili’s to Co-Owner of MarketSteer, a High-End Steakhouse

Ever wondered how someone transitions from an entry level job at a chain restaurant to co-owning a highly rated steakhouse in Santa Fe, New Mexico? In this podcast episode, I speak with Kristina Goode-Crook, co-owner and General Manager of MarketSteer Steakhouse, who takes us through her incredible and unconventional journey in the restaurant industry. Born out of a desire to get out of the house at 15, Kristina’s first job was as a hostess at a Chili’s in Dallas, Texas. Little did she know that this seemingly ordinary job would set the foundation for a lifelong career in the fine dining industry.

Four Takeaways from the Podcast:

* Persistence is Key: Kristina’s pursuit of owning her own restaurant has never wavered. This is an important part of her story.

* Mentorship Matters: The relationships and mentors Kristina built over the years significantly impacted her growth as a leader.

* Soul in Service: The warm, genuine service ethos championed by Kristina and Kat differentiates Market Steer Steakhouse from its competitors.

* Choosing the Right Venue: Moving to Santa Fe, a place with affluent residents and a strong culinary scene, was crucial for the success of their high-end steakhouse.

Short on time? Listen to the first 5 minutes of the episode for some great moments!

A Career Path With Twists and Turns

Kristina's career path was far from linear. She worked as a hostess, then a server, got a degree in broadcasting, and waited tables part-time. It was around this time she met the woman who would become her wife, Kat, a talented chef who would also become her business partner. They eventually moved to Aspen, Colorado, where each took on significant roles at a prestigious steakhouse. When the General Manager recognized Kristina and Kat’s potential, it changed everything. But was Kristina ready for the responsibilities that came with being a General Manager, especially in such a high-stakes environment?

From Aspen to Santa Fe

Life in Aspen was exhilarating but demanding. Facing a transient staff (it is a ski village after all) and a breakneck pace of service, Kristina honed her management skills and figured out how to maximize restaurant occupancy, a skill she would later rely upon heavily. Eventually, the couple moved to Santa Fe, bringing their dream of opening their own restaurant closer to reality. However, opening a high-end steakhouse in a competitive culinary market didn’t come without its own set of challenges. How did they navigate these hurdles and manage to stand out among the already established culinary giants?

Surviving the Pandemic

Their journey took a surprising twist during the pandemic, forcing them to pivot and adapt in ways they never anticipated. Kristina and Kat’s experiences running a food truck played a critical role here. So, what did it take for them to not just survive but thrive during one of the most challenging periods for the restaurant industry?

Curious to learn more about Kristina and Kat’s journey, their unique approach to hospitality, and their plans for the future? Listen to the entire podcast episode for the in-depth conversation and inspiring insights.

And, if you live in Santa Fe or will be visiting, be sure and visit MarketSteer’s new location at 213 Washington Ave. The new venue is epic. Call 505-365-1010 to make a reservation and tell the hostess you read about them on Substack! 😊

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