Restaurateur Stephen Beckta: Hospitality, Leadership & Life Lessons

In this episode of Umber Talks, host Shaun Denis sits down with Stephen Beckta, one of Canada’s most celebrated restaurateurs and the founder of the Beckta Restaurant Group, which includes Ottawa staples- Beckta Dining & Wine, Play Food & Wine, and Gezellig.From navigating the fine dining world of New York City under legends like Daniel Boulud, he brings a rare blend of humility, heart, and high standards to everything he does.This episode is more than a deep dive into the restaurant industry—it’s a conversation about what it means to lead with purpose, the difference between service and hospitality, and how to build meaningful relationships in any business, including real estate.Key Takeaways:Service vs. Hospitality – Why making someone feel seen and cared for matters more than just doing the job well.People-First Leadership – How Stephen built a team culture centered around generosity, respect, and belonging.Learning from the Best in The Business – Lessons from working alongside hospitality giants in NYC.Real Estate Parallels – How hospitality principles translate to real estate: trust, empathy, and long-term relationships.Whether you're in real estate, hospitality, leadership, or simply love a great story about building something with heart, this episode will leave you inspired to raise your standard—and bring others with you.