Having been part of the company since its early beginnings, Besarta Sinanaj brings a strong understanding of the brand’s identity, growth, and presence within New York’s hospitality industry.
What first interested you in your area of the hospitality industry?
Hospitality has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve been around the industry since I was about four years old. My father is one of the founders of Benjamin Steakhouse, so growing up, restaurants, service, and creating memorable experiences for guests were always a part of my everyday life. Being exposed to that environment at such a young age naturally sparked my passion for the business and everything that comes with it.
Who are a few of the people that have encouraged your career?
Definitely my family, first and foremost, especially my father. Watching the way he built relationships and treated both guests and employees taught me invaluable lessons. I’ve also been fortunate to work alongside incredible mentors and team members throughout my career who have challenged me to think creatively, work harder, and continue growing in my role as Marketing Director.
What challenges do you think people face in your industry?
One of the biggest challenges is adapting to constant change. Consumer preferences, technology, and marketing trends evolve quickly, especially in a city like New York. In hospitality, you have to find ways to stay relevant while still maintaining the level of service and consistency that guests expect. Balancing innovation with tradition is something many people in the industry navigate every day.
Can you cite a few accomplishments that have given you great pride and elevated your work?
One accomplishment I’m especially proud of was our recent Metro-North and LIRR advertising campaign. It was incredibly rewarding to see our brand featured throughout the commuter network and to have so many people reach out, share photos, and tell us they had seen our ads during their daily commute. The campaign increased our visibility and generated a great deal of excitement around our restaurants.
What piece of advice can you lend to others who are considering your career?
Don’t be afraid of the unknown. Hospitality is a fast-paced industry where no two days are ever the same, and that’s what makes it so exciting. One thing I’ve learned throughout my career is that every interaction matters. People remember how you make them feel, whether it’s a guest, colleague, or business partner. If you approach others with genuine care, respect, and authenticity, you’ll build strong relationships that can open doors and create lasting opportunities. In this business, relationships are everything.
Everyone who works in hospitality has a story to tell about something incredible that happened on the job. What’s one that you often tell?
One story I always go back to is helping organize a major grand opening early in my career. Seeing months of planning, marketing, and teamwork come together in a single evening was an incredible experience. The energy in the room, the turnout, and watching guests enjoy something we had built from the ground up reminded me why I love this industry so much.
What do you hope people understand about those who work in your area of hospitality?
I hope people understand how much work happens behind the scenes. Whether it’s operations, marketing, events, or guest relations, there is a tremendous amount of planning and coordination involved in creating a seamless experience. Hospitality is about making people feel welcome and valued, and that takes dedication from an entire team working together every day.
Is there anything else you want Woman Around Town readers to know?
I’m incredibly grateful to be part of an industry that brings people together. Some of life’s most meaningful moments happen around a table, whether it’s celebrating a milestone, closing a business deal, or simply spending time with family and friends. Being able to play a small role in creating those memories is something I never take for granted.
Photo courtesy of Benjamin Restaurant Group
