"Culture isn't just a word, it's the soul and backbone of its organization, reflecting its values, beliefs, expectations and actions. When it's strong and exemplified, it attracts and retains the best talent and ultimately drives the success and sustainability of the business."
MEET ERIC MARTINO
Eric Martino, Founder and Executive Chairman of Culture Hospitality Group with over 29 years of experience in the restaurant industry, brings a wealth of expertise to those he works and partners with. Most recently, he served as President of MINA Group, where his leadership and strategic vision led the marketing, culinary, operations and beverage teams. These departments directly served, supported, and managed the diverse and dynamic thirty-plus concepts spanning nationally and internationally. Prior to his President role, Eric held the position of Chief Operating Officer at José Andrés Group, overseeing a vast portfolio with over two hundred million dollars in revenues and spearheading operations across nine major markets globally. Eric has worked in collaboration and partnered with top-level hotel luxury groups in securing management agreements as well as developing and deploying robust and remarkable F&B programs.
Before his tenure at José Andrés Group, Eric excelled as the VP of Operations for M Street Entertainment Group, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in diverse operational environments. His journey in hospitality includes ownership and management roles across various establishments, where he honed his skills in both culinary arts and business management. With a culinary background as a chef, Eric seamlessly bridges the gap between front and back-of-house operations, leveraging his creative instincts to conceptualize successful ventures from scratch, often starting with just a napkin sketch and fostering them into becoming successful endeavors that measured success in sales and profits. Eric is passionate about people and talent development serving as an advocate, coach, resource, and motivator for other restaurateurs.
“My motto is to seek to understand so you can be understood, and by doing so you can provide the right information, education, and inspiration.”
Eric and his wife, Katherine, share a dedication to personal fitness and believe that everyone deserves to make time for their health and well- being. Katherine leads and operates Martino Fit, a fitness coaching company. They have three children and call Washington, D.C. their home. Maintaining a proper fitness regimen in this industry is key to providing the right energy and unlocking boundless potential.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Eric is deeply passionate about serving his community and proudly sits on several executive boards. His dedication to empowering others underscores his commitment to the industry's growth and development.