DAVID GRUTMAN

FOUNDER & CO-OWNER, GROOT HOSPITALITY, MIAMI

Groot Hospitality, which employs hundreds, is a Miami-based company known for its immersive restaurants and nightlife venues, including Komodo, Papi Steak, Gekko, Casadonna and LIV. “By transforming Miami’s hospitality landscape with luxe, high-energy venues, I’ve helped position the city as a global destination for immersive dining and live music experiences, inspiring a new generation of experiential entrepreneurs,” says Grutman.

EDUCATION: University of Florida (BS)

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: I’d be a professional tennis player. Fitness and competition are passions of mine, and I’m on the court every day.

MENTEE IMPACT: I mentor hospitality students at Florida International University, helping them understand how creativity, branding and experience can turn ideas into real-world success.

SOMETHING SURPRISING: I’m a deeply committed family man. My favorite place in the world is wherever my wife and daughters are, especially at our home in Miami Beach.

PASSION PROJECT: I’m the creative director and co-owner of Prince, an athletic lifestyle brand that combines my love for sports, style and innovation.

INDUSTRY TREND: The merging of hospitality and entertainment into seamless, content-worthy experiences is redefining consumer expectations. Guests now seek not just great food or music, but unforgettable environments that engage all senses, often driven by celebrity collaboration and social media buzz.

FIRST JOB
“My first industry job was bartending at the Aventura Mall, working for my now partner in LIV, Jeff Soffer.”