David Grutman’s influence and impact extend beyond the Miami scene as Groot Hospitality’s dynamic and inventive restaurants and nightclubs have made their mark on the hospitality industry.With decades of experience under his belt, 2024 will mark the first full year of Groot Hospitality’s expansion to Las Vegas, with two West Coast outposts of his most “seen and be seen” restaurants, the buzzy and vibrant Southeast Asian hotspot, Komodo, and Papi Steak, an intimate yet high-octane spin on the classic steakhouse. Both restaurants have already earned praise and recognition as “Best New Restaurants in Las Vegas.” LIV has also made its way into the discerning Las Vegas nightlife scene with an impressive roster of A-list talent, striking architecture and technology, further cementing LIV’s legacy as the ultimate nightlife destination. LIV Beach, Groot Hospitality’s foray into Las Vegas daylife, debuted this spring, the upscale poolside bacchanal draws inspiration from the French Riviera and boasts the same chart-topping lineup of the hottest names in EDM, hip-hop, and beyond as its nightlife counterpart. Komodo, Papi Steak, LIV Las Vegas, and LIV Beach call the Strip’s newest hotel-casino jewel, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, home. The resort was one of the city’s most anticipated openings in recent history and was even named one of TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places” within its first year of operations.
With a gregarious attitude and knack for setting trends, Grutman has amassed an impressive portfolio of one-of-kind ventures, including Miami’s Gekkō, in partnership with global sensation, Bad Bunny; Casadonna with Tao Group Hospitality; Komodo; Swan, his first collaboration with powerhouse Pharrell Williams, who is also partnered with Groot Hospitality on the conception of The Goodtime Hotel and day-to-night restaurant, bar and swim club Strawberry Moon; celebrity favorite Papi Steak with partner, David “Papi” Einhorn; and LIV, one of the most iconic nightclubs in the world. Komodo Dallas was Groot Hospitality’s first property outside of Florida, bringing Miami’s cachet to the Lone Star State.
Outside of Groot Hospitality, Grutman also pursues additional business and personal ventures, including his work as the creative director and co-owner of Prince, the athletics and lifestyle company. The Miami-based entrepreneur is also a proud investor in a handful of successful consumer brands, including SkinnyDipped, Vacation, Goodles, and many more that he integrates into his ecosystem. Additionally, Grutman teaches a guest class at Florida International University’s School of Hospitality and Tourism, “The David Grutman Experience,” focusing on the conceptualization and creation of hospitality ventures, as well as Grutman’s candid view of his path to success.
What’s next for the serial entrepreneur? He has planted his stake in film and television with his own production company, DGN Studios, focusing on original content and documentaries around his entrepreneurial IP and the entertainment space. In 2025 and beyond, expect multiple new national and international Groot Hospitality venues.
