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.

Kourtney Jackson Brand Training Manager - Hi Pointe, Chicken Out

KoKo Jackson began her journey with Hi-Pointe Drive-In from its inception, rising swiftly through the ranks to supervisor, Assistant General Manager, and eventually General Manager across multiple locations. Renowned for her expertise in training and development, KoKo now spearheads all training initiatives as the Brand Training Manager. She also leads the New Store Opening team and introduces innovative training programs across all 8 Hi-Pointe locations.

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's journey in the restaurant industry began at age sixteen at California Pizza Kitchen. Her exceptional leadership skills swiftly propelled her to a corporate position as an Opening Team Trainer, where she spent several years traveling the country and opening new CPK locations. Eventually, Molly returned home to St. Louis excelled in the role of Kitchen Manager and then Assistant General Manager. From there she moved to Crushed Red in St. Louis, transforming their catering operations, achieving a staggering increase in sales year over year. Returning to California Pizza Kitchen as a Senior Area Marketing Partner, Molly spearheaded regional, national, and global field marketing efforts in multiple regions. Now serving as Director of Brand Marketing and Social Media Manager for Hi-Pointe Drive-In and Chicken Out, she uses her creativity to create all of the brands social media content, develops and executes marketing campaigns and brand strategies, establishes corporate partnerships, and enhances fundraising programs.

Will Ortmann Director of Operations - Hi-Pointe, Chicken Out

Will Ortmann, currently serving as Director of Operations for Hi-Pointe and Chicken Out, discovered his passion for blending culinary arts with leadership early in his career. With over 15 years at Delaware North, he rose through various culinary leadership roles to become the General Manager of Cardinal Nation, the St. Louis Cardinals' premier off-premise venue. Joining the Hi-Pointe team in 2020 as Kitchen Manager, he swiftly ascended to Director of Operations in 2022. Will has been instrumental in guiding Hi-Pointe through its expansion while fostering a strong organizational culture.

Todd Thornhill Chief Operating Officer

In 1984, Todd started his restaurant journey with Wards in Mississippi, specializing in chili burgers and hot dogs. Upon moving to St. Louis, he diversified his experience across various quick-service concepts namely Panera Bread. Todd served in several leadership roles during his 30 year career at Panera including, Regional Training Manager, Area Director, Operations Services, Director of Franchise Operations, and lead Panera’s innovation team. In March 2024, he assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer at Gastronauts Food Group, focusing on enhancing operational efficiencies and supporting concept operators.

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.