Steel District Role Means Homecoming For New Restaurant Leader

Joe Henkin can look at a well-tuned restaurant operation and see nothing less than a work of art.

“I think what we do is performative – theatrical – and people coming in and sharing in that excitement is something I want to be involved in,” he said.

For Henkin, becoming director of operations for SDR Hospitality – which stands for “Steel District Restaurants” – represents the chance to leverage experience in multiple industries.

Prior to his new role in Sioux Falls, he was manager of operations for the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco and previously theatre manager of The Julliard School in New York City – while also building a career in the food and beverage industry. His resume includes serving as director of operations at The Loring Bar & Restaurant in the Minneapolis Dinkytown neighborhood.

“I always worked in restaurants, specifically to augment or finance an academic pursuit or finance my life, so it’s always been a critical feature for me – being involved in both food and beverage and theatrical management,” he said.

“Many of the companies I worked for had a very significant food and beverage component.”

As director of operations at SDR, Henkin oversees Big Sioux Burger, Dahlia Kitchen + Bar, and Ironwood at The Steel District.

“The thrill for me is when everything synthesizes – really establishing an identity not only as three individual restaurant properties but as a compelling narrative in itself,” he said.

The move to Sioux Falls also brings him back to his roots. His father, Joe Henkin Jr., was co-founder of the HenkinSchultz advertising firm, and the younger Joe Henkin found himself drawn to the entrepreneurial nature of Sioux Falls today.

“I think this is a very entrepreneurial city, and I admire that,” he said. “I’ve met incredible people here of all ages that are entrepreneurs, and it’s just a really dynamic place to be.”

At The Steel District, he’s helping the three restaurants not just managing operations but connect to the community. Look for their featured dishes in October’s Pork Showdown through Downtown Sioux Falls Inc. and stay tuned for more special events like their live music series and the popular canine Yappy Hour held on the Steel District’s shared patio.

“I get to work with some really dynamic people,” Henkin said. “I can’t overemphasize the quality of leadership of those I’m working with and among. The potential here is boundless.”

He was sold on the property from his first dinner at Ironwood, he added.

“I just thought it was so elegant and compelling – a kind of art as well,” he said. “There’s nothing like it. It’s wonderful to be on the plaza and close to the river. I see guests departing happy and curious about what we’re doing here together and that’s extraordinary. I love visiting tables and introducing myself. That’s the hook. That’s the thrill.”

Henkin leads a strong team at The Steel District restaurants and always is open to connecting with hospitality talent, he said.

“What’s so unique about Sioux Falls is many people will come in and introduce themselves and indicate they’re interested in contributing,” he said. “For me, that’s very cool. I love people coming in and sharing that excitement and just wanting to be involved in something.”

To learn more about the Steel District restaurants, visit here. https://www.thesteeldistrict.com/food-drink