Robert St. John, a native of Hattiesburg, MS, is a restaurateur, author, philanthropist, and international travel guide dedicated to community and service. He founded Onward Hospitality, managing concepts in Hattiesburg and Jackson, MS. Since discovering his passion for restaurants at 19, St. John has opened over a dozen eateries, including Crescent City Grill and Ed’s Burger Joint. He writes a weekly food column, authored ten books, and leads culinary trips to Europe, focusing on Italy. Committed to ending hunger in Mississippi, he founded Extra Table and secured grants for independent restaurants during Covid. Recognized with awards like Restaurateur of the Year, St. John continues to elevate Mississippi's dining scene while enjoying family time and music.

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Founded in 2016, the mission of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ben's Friends ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠is to offer hope, fellowship, and a path forward to anyone who struggles with substance abuse or addiction. By coming together, starting a dialogue, and acknowledging that substance abuse cannot be overcome by isolation and willpower alone, Ben's Friends hopes to write a new chapter in the lives of food and beverage professionals across the country.