**David Grutman: The Hospitality Mogul Who Shares His Journey in New Memoir**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/david-grutman-1-041626-1ec23a93f791401888a0b3a4df65874a.jpg)
David Grutman, a prominent figure in the world of nightlife and hospitality, has turned the page to a new chapter in his career by releasing his memoir, titled *Take It Personal: How to Succeed by Building Relationships and Playing the Long Game.* The book, launched on April 14, shares the story of Grutman’s remarkable ascent from a novice bartender to the founder of Groot Hospitality, overseeing popular venues such as Papi Steak, Komodo, and Liv Nightclub.
The 51-year-old entrepreneur reflects on his early experiences in the industry, recounting his start at a restaurant in Aventura Mall shortly after graduating from the University of Florida. “I was a bartender at a restaurant… It was a gig I loved, but not one I necessarily thought would turn into a career,” Grutman stated. His path changed when he found supportive mentors who encouraged him to pursue more significant opportunities within the hospitality sector.
Grutman quickly rose through the ranks, transitioning from bartending to management at a young age. He recalls his surprise at overseeing staff who had decades more experience than him: “Suddenly, I was managing people that have been in the business for 20 years… just a punk kid.” His natural ability to connect with customers helped him excel in his new role, and he credits his conversational skills to a lifelong desire to engage with people from all walks of life.
In his memoir, Grutman shares anecdotes about his encounters with celebrities, including Kim Kardashian, whom he met when she was still in the shadow of Paris Hilton. He emphasises that every guest should receive equal treatment, a philosophy that has helped him cultivate lasting relationships in the industry. Kardashian, who wrote the foreword for *Take It Personal*, has remained a close friend, showcasing Grutman’s talent for networking.
Beyond high-profile friendships, Grutman has an innate ability to identify musicians destined for stardom, forging connections with the right promoters and DJs to ensure his venues resonate with the right energy. He explains that the success of his establishments relies not solely on trendy acts, but on the overall atmosphere created. “It’s all about the energy they bring into the room… I don’t actually love loud music all that much!” he admits.
However, Grutman’s journey has not been without its challenges. He candidly discusses his need to adopt sobriety in recent years, driven by the potential for self-destruction linked to his high-pressure lifestyle. “I had to go sober… I was going to ruin my life,” he reveals, emphasising the importance of maintaining his reputation in a competitive industry. He recognises that for some, moderation may suffice, but for him, the continuous escalation of his partying habits could have threatened everything he built.
To maintain balance in his personal and professional life, Grutman has implemented structure and routine. Activities such as daily tennis with his peers and dedicating time to his family—his wife, jewelry designer Isabela Rangel, and their two daughters—help keep him centred. Reflecting on his childhood, Grutman notes how growing up in a single-parent household shaped his values and priorities, creating a strong desire for stability and security in his own family life.
Looking ahead, Grutman hints at potential expansions in his hospitality empire, although he remains tight-lipped about specific projects. For now, his primary goal is to ensure each visitor to his venues leaves with unforgettable memories. “It’s so fun to be able to make someone’s f—ing life get changed,” he says enthusiastically, highlighting his commitment to providing enjoyable experiences.
*Take It Personal: How to Succeed by Building Relationships and Playing the Long Game* is now available in bookstores, giving readers insights not only into Grutman’s successful career but also the personal growth that has enabled him to thrive in a dynamic industry. With his unique blend of charisma, ambition, and a touch of humility, Grutman’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the significance of forging authentic connections along the way.