Finding a Seat at the Table of Success: Meet Katelyn Belonga, Emerging Hospitality Star of the Year

Katelyn Belonga is not to be underestimated. At an age when many young professionals are just getting their careers started and defining their interests, she already has a decade of experience in hospitality and more than an average amount of passion for the industry.  

“I love what I do and I’ve dedicated my life to this industry,” said the stand-out Beverage Director and Dining Room Manager at the elegant Brentwood Grille in Novi. Katelyn was nominated by the restaurant's owner as a remarkably deserving recipient of the 2025 Emerging Hospitality Star of the Year, which honors an exemplary professional under the age of 35. She won the award in a public vote.  

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“Katelyn consistently goes above and beyond in every aspect of her role, whether it’s providing outstanding customer service, working collaboratively with her team, or ensuring that every guest leaves with a memorable experience,” wrote Bob Brentwood when praising her work at the restaurant and nominating her for the award.  
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When Katelyn aims high, she delivers. At the start of her career at The Brentwood Grille, she hosted monthly wine dinners with different beverage suppliers. At first, around 15 people would attend each gathering. Katelyn decided to think bigger.  
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Now, her monthly wine dinners are sold-out events, with about 60 people attending each dinner and taking home an average sale of 10 cases of wines. Her secret to success, she says, is to never give up and to never stop learning.
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“My advice for someone just starting out in the industry is to stay consistent and persistent,” she says. “Never be afraid to say you don’t know something. There is always room for growth, and honesty will allow space for you to learn even more.”  ​

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Katelyn also shines behind the bar, showing off her creative side. Her signature cocktail, which was commissioned for the Bourbon Women of Michigan meeting at the Brentwood Grille, is a riff on the classic Last Word cocktail, which she explains originated in Detroit at the D.A.C at a time when women were not allowed in. The name of Katelyn's cocktail is “Ladies’ Last Word.” It won her a spot at a competition in Ohio – and a career highlight she's incredibly proud of.  

Creativity and ingenuity is key to success in the industry, according to Katelyn. “If you don’t have a seat at the table, build your own table and be the first to sit there.”  
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“Ladies’ Last Word” is made with Penelope Four Grain Bourbon, maschino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, served in a coupe and garnished with a luxardo cherry. 

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The Stars of the Industry Awards is an annual ceremony to recognize the outstanding members of Michigan's hospitality industry who demonstrate exceptional professionalism and creativity in their careers, going above and beyond to contribute to the positive image of the industry. This is the premier award given to hospitality professionals in Michigan. Learn more about the Stars of the Industry Awards at mrla.org/stars ​

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