The International Taste Station

Ben Hillman President

Ben, President of Gastronauts Food Group started his career with a decade-long stint in Denver, immersing himself in food and hospitality, notably with MOD Pizza and Smashburger. Returning to St. Louis in 2016, he joined Lewis and Clark Capital, leading their first ever restaurant investment at Hi-Pointe Drive-In, later investing in Chicken Out and Taco Buddha, bringing them together to form the Gastronauts Food Group. His focus lies in fostering partnerships with passionate restaurateurs, assembling top-tier teams, and nurturing the growth of all Gastronauts' ventures.

Mike Johnson Partner, Executive Chef - Hi-Pointe Drive In

Chef Mike Johnson, trained at the New England Culinary Institute, honed his skills in fine dining alongside luminaries like Emeril Lagasse and Charlie Trotter. After he transitioned into the fast-casual scene, founding acclaimed Sugarfire Smoke House. In 2021, Mike clinched the title of "World's Best Burger" at the World Food Championships, due to his mastery of the smash burgers at Hi-Pointe. Mike remains dedicated to artistic innovation, and is continuously pushing culinary boundaries.

Molly Hitzeman Director of Brand Marketing and Social Media

Molly began her restaurant career at sixteen with California Pizza Kitchen, quickly rising to a corporate Opening Team Trainer role, traveling nationwide to open new locations. Back in St. Louis, she excelled as a Kitchen Manager and Assistant GM before joining Crushed Red, where she transformed their catering program and drove major year-over-year sales growth. Returning to CPK as a Senior Area Marketing Partner, she led regional, national, and global field marketing initiatives. Now as Director of Brand Marketing and Social Media Manager for Hi-Pointe Drive-In and Chicken Out, Molly drives creative strategy developing campaigns, content, partnerships, and fundraising programs that bring the brands to life.

Kim Reitzner Chief Operating Officer

From flipping pizzas at just 14 years old to leading operations for major restaurant brands, Kim has built a career fueled by a lifelong passion for hospitality. After earning a degree in hospitality studies, Kim advanced through a variety of leadership roles including Director of Training, District Manager, Director of Operations, and Chief Operating Officer across well-known brands such as Panera and Crazy Bowls & Wraps. In July 2025, Kim joined Gastronauts Food Group as Chief Operating Officer, bringing decades of hands-on experience and a people-first leadership philosophy. Kim believes that exceptional guest experiences begin with exceptional team experiences championing growth, empowerment, and culture as the foundation for every success.

Liam Johnston Culinary Operations Manager - Taco Buddha

Liam Johnston joined Taco Buddha in April 2021 with years of culinary and restaurant experience. Starting as an hourly team member, he quickly progressed to management, eventually becoming Head of Kitchen Operations. His strong work ethic, leadership, and positive attitude have delighted staff and ensured smooth kitchen operations. Liam believes in improving operations, maintaining high standards, and fostering a creative, enjoyable work environment for both his team and himself.

Kurt Eller Partner, Chief Concept Officer - Taco Buddha

Kurt founded Taco Buddha in 2015 as a side catering business while working in supply-chain management. It grew from a small café in University City with 48 seats to a neighborhood institution in St. Louis, known for its international flavors. In 2023, Kurt expanded to Kirkwood. To support further growth, Kurt handed over operations to Ben Hillman and Gastronaut Food Group, while he remains focused on maintaining the original spirit of Taco Buddha.