Steven Taubitz is the new owner of the Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grille in downtown Fenton.
The Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grille still stands, solid and hospitable, greeting hungry patrons as it did when it was first built as the railroads came to Fenton in 1856. It was listed as “The Vermont House.” Now, as the historic restaurant celebrates its 170th anniversary, Steven is at the helm.
The most recent owners, Nick and Peggy Sorise, purchased The Fenton Hotel in 1997. In 2006, The Fenton Hotel celebrated its 150th anniversary, and to mark the occasion, the Sorises undertook a renovation that included a name change to the current name, “Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grille.”
Steven started working at the Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grille nearly 11 years ago. He began as a server and worked his way through many roles, including bartender, bar manager, restaurant manager and now owner. Many still refer to the iconic restaurant simply as the Fenton Hotel.
Along the way, he also met his wife, Taylor, at the Fenton Hotel. During a mid-July interview with My City Magazine, Steven reflected on his journey.
“This place has been a huge part of my life,” he said. “We’ve been married now for a little over two years and we are expecting our first child, a daughter named Ellie, at the end of August. The Hotel has given me more than just a career; it has helped me build a life and a family.”
As for the future, Steven says he is fortunate that the Fenton Hotel already has a strong identity. He said it is a staple in the community, and changing too much would be doing a disservice to Fenton and to the generations of guests who have made it a part of their lives.
“My goal is to preserve what people know and love while introducing thoughtful improvements,” he said. “You’ll still find the classic menu favorites, but we’ll be rolling out a fresh new cocktail program, continuing live entertainment every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and bringing in a mix of familiar acts along with some new local artists.”
My goal is to preserve what people know and love while introducing thoughtful improvements.”
— Steven Taubitz
1 What/where/when was your first job?
My first job was at Alpine Marketplace in Linden when I was 15 years old. I started off as a stocker and eventually worked my way up to store manager. Beginning my career as a freshman in high school taught me the value of hard work and responsibility. I also give a lot of credit to my boss at the time, Buffie, who helped shape the work ethic and leadership skills that I carry with me today. Being so young, I’m sure I tested her patience.
2 What is the biggest risk you have ever taken?
Without question, buying the Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grille. This year has been the biggest and most exciting chapter of my life. Not only am I taking on the responsibility of owning a business that’s been a cornerstone of the community for generations, but I’m also welcoming our first child. Between becoming a business owner and a father, I’m getting a crash course in two of life’s biggest adventures, and I couldn’t be more excited.
3 How do you think your friends would describe you?
I think my friends would describe me as driven and always looking for a way to make things better. When I commit to something, I give it everything I have and see it through. I try to build genuine relationships, whether it’s with friends, coworkers, guests or people in the community. I’m a firm believer that you get out what you put in.
4 What makes you laugh the most?
My wife and friends, without a doubt. They’re the people I can just be myself around. Whether it’s giving each other a hard time, telling old stories or just hanging out, there’s never a dull moment when I’m with them.
5 What are your biggest goals for the future?
To build something that lasts. I want the Fenton Hotel to continue being a place the community is proud to call its own while creating an experience that keeps guests coming back. At the same time, I want to be a great husband and father. Becoming a dad is the role I’m looking forward to most. Years from now, if I can say that I built a successful business and raised a great family, I’d consider that a pretty successful life.
6 Who is your hero? Why?
It’s hard for me to pick one person because I’ve been incredibly lucky to have an amazing support system throughout my life. My family has always believed in me and encouraged me to chase my goals. My wife has been by my side through every challenge and celebration. Without her, none of this would be possible. The regulars at the Fenton Hotel have supported me for years and have become like an extended family. Nick Sorise, the previous owner, has been an incredible mentor and a huge help in preparing me for this opportunity. I wouldn’t be where I am today without all of them.
7 If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This would be a great question for my wife. She could eat the same meal every day and be content. For me, on the other hand, that’s a very difficult question. If I had to pick one food, I would say tacos … and hopefully I can pick different proteins and toppings to get some kind of variety.
