Written by: Francesco Vincenzo Iacono
A native of Hawley, PA, Justin Genzlinger has deep-seated roots in hospitality, having contributed to his family’s boutique hotel and farm-to-table restaurant, The Settlers Inn, from a young age.
After obtaining his B.S. in Accounting from Lehigh University in 1999, Justin ventured into a consulting career in Washington D.C. In 2012, he returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania, driving the growth of Settlers Hospitality. This management company, stemming from The Settlers Inn, plays a pivotal role in the regional economy.
Under Justin’s leadership, the family of properties expanded, with Ledges Hotel and Glass-wine.bar.kitchen leading the way, followed by Lake Region Fitness, Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery, Art on the Edge, Silver Birches lakeside resort, and Sayre Mansion.
In addition to his hospitality ventures, Justin actively manages commercial real estate, overseeing approximately 275,000 square feet. His commitment extends to various professional and community organizations, including roles on the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau Executive Board, Pennsylvania Resort and Lodging Association Board, Select Registry (hotel association) finance committee, Marely’s Mission Board, Human Resource Center Foundation Board, and Lacawac Sanctuary finance committee.
In this edition of The Creative Spotlight, I had the privilege of conversing with Justin Genzlinger. Our discussion explores his early passion for hospitality and restaurants, the expansion of his portfolio, the strategic selection of Pocono Mountains locations, his pivotal role in the Settlers Hospitality Group, and valuable advice for emerging entrepreneurs in similar career paths.
Q&A Session
The Creative Spotlight: At what age did you become interested in working in the hospitality and restaurant industries? And, who or what inspired you to pursue a career in these exclusive but exciting professions?
Justin Genzlinger: I grew up in the industry. My parents, Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger, opened The Settlers Inn in 1980. We lived at the hotel and much of my childhood was spent in this atmosphere watching my parents make a living out of their passion for hospitality and farm-to-table dining. When I was about 35 years old, my parents were ready to retire or at least take a step back from the day-to-day operations. At that time there was also an opportunity to consolidate legacy properties in the Pocono Mountains and bring them under the umbrella of Settlers Hospitality to offer a comprehensive experience to guests.
TCS: For the benefit of those who may not be too familiar with Justin Genzlinger or your overall body of work, can you please provide us with a brief overview of your career?
JG: After graduating from Wallenpaupack Area High School I earned a B.S. in Accounting from Lehigh University. My career began with Arthur Anderson LLC. Then as co-founder and partner with Washington D.C. based Actualize Consulting, I worked with government sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In 2012 I returned to Northeast PA and became president and CEO of Settlers Hospitality, a boutique multi-concept hospitality firm. Today, I oversee a portfolio of six hotels, eight restaurants, various lifestyle brands and real estate investments. My specialization is real estate financing for residential, multi-family properties. I’m on the board of community and economic development organizations including Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Pennsylvania Workforce Development, Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association and Settlers Cares Foundation.
TCS: What specifically sparked your interest in acquiring properties primarily situated in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania?
JG: Home is where the heart is, it’s that simple. My parents firmly established a flagship property in The Settlers Inn. Applying their blueprint for authentic experiences and exemplary hospitality to other properties was really a no brainer. Acquiring other properties also allowed us to stimulate economic development in the area and open up professional career opportunities to more residents. It also filled a gap in the Pocono Mountains by providing a product previously unavailable in the region.
TCS: Can you share with us the specific boutique hotels, diverse restaurants, distinctive event venues, and lifestyle offerings that comprise the Settlers Hospitality Group?
JG: Certainly! Settlers Hospitality Group encompasses a curated selection of boutique hotels, offering unique and personalized experiences. Our diverse range of restaurants caters to various tastes, ensuring a culinary journey for every palate. Additionally, our distinctive event venues provide the perfect settings for memorable occasions. The lifestyle offerings within our group are crafted to enhance and enrich the overall experience, reflecting our commitment to exceptional hospitality and curated moments.
The Settlers Inn – A traditional historic arts and crafts lodge set in exquisite gardens along the Lackawaxen River. Our original, flagship farm-to-table fine dining experience with an award-winning wine list offers guests the option to dine in the historic Arts and Crafts dining room or on our garden terrace overlooking decades old gardens which house over 100,000 perennials, native plants and flowers. The Undercroft provides a warm and elegant setting for indoor events while the gardens and Grant’s Woods offer lovely outdoor venues.
Ledges Hotel & Glass-wine.bar.kitchen – A Peter Bohlin designed industrial contemporary boutique hotel set inside the Wallenpaupack Gorge. Intentionally non-traditional, Glass-wine.bar.kitchen is a sophisticated, yet casual small plates dining experience set in a towering waterfall gorge. The tapas-style eatery features a domestic wine and cocktail program that rivals the complexity of any urban mixologist. The tiered decks create a stunning backdrop for weddings and special events.
Silver Birches & The Dock on Wallenpaupack – A sunset facing vintage lake front resort set on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack. A casual, vintage eatery overlooking Lake Wallenpaupack, The Dock is a true water lovers’ haven with simple, delicious, time proven classics and an atmosphere appropriate for guests in any attire, whether arriving by car or by boat. Guests have the option to dine inside, surrounded by windows offering lake views or on the outside waterfront deck. The Waterfront offers a bright, welcoming atmosphere with expansive water views for banquets, weddings, and private events.
Hotel Anthracite & Kōl Grill – A modern hotel in an urban setting that celebrates the history and heritage of the community. Located in Hotel Anthracite, Kōl Grill is a casual restaurant with traditional and creative dishes. Guests enjoy weekly specials and culinary events. Gravity Hall is one of the largest event venues in the area and boasts an elegant, contemporary atmosphere ideal for weddings, conferences, and banquets.
Sayre Mansion & The Founder’s Table – A favorite among hotels in Bethlehem PA, known for offering luxurious accommodations, historic charm and refined services for individual travelers and select groups. Experience a truly unique dinner at Founders’ Table here in the private dining room at The Sayre Mansion. Immerse yourself in the very spaces that founding fathers Robert Sayre and Asa Packer once enjoyed. Your six-course meal will be prepared and served by our award-winning caterer Karen Hunter and her team.
The Chestnut Inn – A lakeside destination in the grand tradition of the Catskill resorts of 1940s and ’50s. Located on the shores of Oquaga Lake, a private swimming lake in the foothills of New York’s Catskill Mountains. Guests enjoy 400 feet of waterfront and a French Brasserie style restaurant.
Cocoon Coffeehouse and Bakery – A coffee house highlighting hand crafted locally roasted coffee drinks featuring Moka Origins products. Quick service breakfast and lunches featuring fresh baked bread and pastries. Also carrying local cheese, milk, eggs, and meat.
Runaway Train Brewery – The craft brews and elevated pub food of Runaway Train Brewery celebrate Honesdale PA’s rich railroading legacy in a historic building along the tracks of the fabled D& H Railroad.
Hawley Silk Mill & The Boiler Room – A vital part of this community since its construction in 1880. Its many incarnations over the years have included a silk factory with the foremost technology of the day, a textile factory, and antique center. Never has it been more vibrant than today. The vision for the repurposed factory is to have a center that celebrates the lifestyle of the Pocono Lake Region – a place for the residents and visitors alike to shop, gather, eat, exercise, and learn. The industrial repurposed style of the Hawley Silk Mill makes a unique event venue. The Boiler Room features stunning views of the river gorge and decor that blends historic elements with a modern vibe.
Blu Stone Catering – Delivering signature cuisine, superior quality and attention to detail synonymous with Settlers Hospitality to off-site events. Featuring creative menus in a variety of styles, price points and themes to enhance any occasion. Offering full-service catering services at the venue of your choosing. Specializing in weddings, celebrations, corporate retreats and private dinners. Whether assisting to plan a wedding, rehearsal dinner, party, corporate retreat, or other festivity, our event coordinators are committed to applying their knowledge and skills to create a high level, personalized event that realizes the guest’s vision for their special day.
Pocono Region Vacation Rentals – A unique alternative to hotel accommodations giving guests the opportunity to live like a local and enjoy the comforts of home. Vacation rentals provide a wide range of experiences, from small town living ideal for walking adventures to rural housing with lake rights or views of Lake Wallenpaupack and a Fazio designed golf course.
Lake Region Fitness – A boutique fitness center fully equipped with the latest machines and free weights offering members 24/7 access.
Art on the Edge – A specialty retail store focused on contemporary art, home decor, gifts, and fashion.
Gorgeous Floral – Distinctive floral arrangements, whether it is ‘just because’ or for the myriad of life’s momentous occasions. Gorgeous Floral is a ‘feast for the eyes’ retail shop; an experience you won’t forget.
The Potting Shed – A retail and gift store themed around garden art featuring products consistent with the arts and crafts lodge setting of The Settlers Inn.
TCS: Can you tell us about how your parents purchased the Settlers Inn, a Poconos Craftsman-style lodge built in 1980, and began there, now your, labor of love?
JG: For over 40 years Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger have nurtured the ideals of historic preservation, not only at The Settlers Inn but throughout their community in the Northern Poconos. The Settlers Inn, built in 1927, is a fine example of English Arts and Crafts design. Native Bluestone and chestnut woods are the foundation of the Inn’s massive structure. The building was established by the community shortly after Lake Wallenpaupack, a man-made lake with a 52-mile shoreline, was created in 1925. The forward-thinking Chamber of Commerce rightfully believed that tourism would come, and they wanted to be prepared with the finest hotel for miles around. They succeeded in building the hotel that originally had 54 rooms. Unfortunately, the Great Depression and World War II kept the building from opening until 1944. After a series of different owners and incarnations, the Genzlinger family and friends purchased the property in 1980. It continues to be a labor of love. Throughout every aspect of The Settlers Inn experience, Founders Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger infused the true spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement, a philosophy which emerged in the 1860s in England in reaction to the heavy ornamentation and industrialization of the high Victorian era. The restaurant opened first, and it was farm-to-table from the very beginning.
TCS: Can you please take a few moments to expand upon the rich history of the Settlers Inn?
JG: The philosophy of the Arts and Crafts movement also lent itself to hospitality and the Genzlingers’ own beliefs- creativity flows from the head to the heart to the hands. That mantra has carried on through 40 years. The Genzlingers’ credit a commitment to excellence and quality as their key to success. Striving to offer guests new experiences launched a number of events that have become synonymous with The Settlers Inn and staple celebrations for the community including Candlelight Christmas and Jazz on the Deck. More recently, The Settlers Inn launched Grant’s Woods, a woodland dining experience that was carved out of an underutilized portion of the property. The area boasts posh picnic cabins, hammock chairs, an extra-large fire pit and wicker furniture for lounging. With the creation of Grant’s Woods, guests enjoy new amenities in a beautiful, natural space that’s spread out.
TCS: Would you classify The Settlers Inn as a four-season Inn? What’s your most popular season and what kind of special events do you host?
JG: The Settlers Inn is absolutely a four-season property. While summer and fall tend to be the most popular among guests, winter offers a cozy getaway and those visiting in spring enjoy seeing the gardens and surrounding countryside burst to life. There are a number of special events held throughout the year. Many have become signature events with guests returning year after year just for the occasion. The Settlers Inn hosts a Storytelling Dinner each October that features over 100 intricately carved jack ‘o lanterns that serve as the backdrop for an autumn dinner complete with slightly spooky tales. Candlelight Christmas ushers in the holiday season with an elegant, festive meal served amid the Inn’s elaborate decorations. The arrival of spring brings a Perennial Exchange, which boasts a garden tour and talk along with a lovely lunch served on the terrace. Jazz on the Deck is a staple of the summer season in the Pocono Mountains. Every Wednesday evening during summer professional jazz musicians perform on the Terrace while guests savor a meal al fresco. Themed wine dinners are also held throughout the year to pair the Inn’s award-winning wine list with the restaurant’s farm-to-table cuisine.
TCS: Tell us about how Settlers Hospitality acquired the 1890s O’Connor Glass Factory, a five-story Federal-style building located in Hawley, PA, and transformed it into The Ledges Hotel, a boutique hotel and restaurant?
JG: We were already at work on an ambitious $15 million project to revitalize the Hawley Silk Mill when the former glass factory property came on the market. At the time it was a defunct time share. The building sits adjacent to the Hawley Silk Mill. Acquiring what would become Ledges Hotel not only enabled us to add another high-quality property to our collection but also complete the campus around the Hawley Silk Mill.
TCS: Bahttps://thesettlersinn.com/ck in 2015, how did your family acquire the Silver Birches property from the Ehrhardt family?
JG: Hawley is essentially the anchor town that serves Lake Wallenpaupack. Although we had properties in town, we were not able to offer any lake-related amenities to our guests. Our family had a long-standing friendship with the Ehrhardt family, the former owners of Silver Birches. They were experiencing a generational change in business as well with the most involved family members ready to retire. The acquisition simultaneously accomplished our goal of adding to guests’ experiences with a lakeside offering and ensured the continuation of what the Ehrhardt family had established over 80 years prior.
TCS: Tell us about The Dock on Wallenpaupack, a casual, vintage eatery set on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack?
JG: The Dock on Wallenpaupack is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is a true water lovers’ haven with simple, delicious, time-proven classics and an atmosphere appropriate for guests in any attire, whether arriving by car or by boat. Guests have the option to dine inside, surrounded by windows overlooking the lake, inside the cozy Pub or on the outside waterfront deck.
TCS: What is the historical connection with Hotel Anthracite and the Coal Mining heritage of Carbondale?
JG: Carbondale, PA was the site of the first underground mining operation in America. The city was built on the coal mining industry, which was active there from the 1830s until the 1950s. Hotel Anthracite pays tribute to that rich history and its people through its name and many historical displays throughout the property.
TCS: What do you feel makes the Sayre Mansion a favorite among individual travelers and select groups in Bethlehem PA?
JG: The Sayre Mansion has been a landmark in Bethlehem, PA since 1858. The first mansion of its kind in the city’s prestigious Fountain Hill neighborhood was built for one of Bethlehem’s most prominent citizens, Robert Heysham Sayre. A meticulous restoration of the property transformed The Sayre Mansion into a stunning inn designed to host guests in the grand tradition of its founder, Robert Sayre who gained renown as chief engineer of the Lehigh Valley Railroad. We see ourselves as stewards of this grand home and staff members act as historians preserving and sharing the heritage of the building with guests. There are 19 guest rooms within the mansion and four suites located in the former Carriage House. Many spaces retain original touches such as the vaulted ceiling, chandelier and the floor to ceiling bookshelves of the mansion’s former library.
TCS: Can you provide us with details about the six-course meal served at The Founder’s Table by your Award-Winning Caterer Karen Hunter and Her Team?
JG: The Founder’s Table lets visitors “Feast Like a Founder” when they dine in the same surroundings where some of Bethlehem’s most notable industrial magnates held court. In-house caterer Karen Hunter prepares a sumptuous six-course meal for 8-18 guests that’s served in the privacy of the mansion’s formal dining room. Dinner entrees may include Chilean Sea Bass, Roasted Duck Breast or Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Quail. Guests choose from seven menus or customize the meal to their liking. At least 72 hours’ notice is required for reservations and the meal is BYOB.
TCS: Share with us some details about The Chestnut Inn, a charming bed and breakfast on the shores of Oquaga Lake at The Chestnut Inn located in Central New York since 1927?
JG: The Chestnut Inn is the newest addition to Settlers Hospitality’s collection of distinctive properties. Originally operated as a 60-room hotel, the structure was built almost entirely from American Chestnut, which is now extinct. Much of the original woodwork remains intact including the expansive lobby, grand staircase and lounge with a stunning bar. A massive stone fireplace that burns four-foot logs is the focal point of the lobby. The baseball size piece of marble in the center was brought from Germany by the president of Borden Dairy, a frequent guest. The Chestnut Inn is a lakeside destination in the grand tradition of the Catskill resorts of the 1940s and ’50s. Located on the shores of Oquaga Lake, a private swimming lake in the foothills of New York’s Catskill Mountains. Guests enjoy 400 feet of waterfront, 17 guest suites and a wonderful French Brasserie themed restaurant.
TCS: Tell us about the Runaway Train, a D&H Brewing Company, and how it is celebrating the rich history of the railroad while serving the finest craft beers in Honesdale, PA?
JG: The first successful operation of a steam locomotion in American happened in Honesdale, PA. Runaway Train Brewery sits alongside the fabled tracks of the former D&H Railroad. A stellar selection of craft beers is brewed in-house and served with a creative menu of elevated pub food.
TCS: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs who want to make a living in the hospitality and restaurant industries?
JG: The hospitality industry is an enriching experience no matter your career path. Whether or not you make it your life-long profession you’ll take away invaluable skills sets that will serve you in every walk of life. If you’re successful, you’ll learn how to cultivate relationships and build strong interpersonal skills. The communication tools and customer service lessons have far-reaching applications. I would encourage anyone to spend some time in the hospitality industry, but I bet once you get a taste of it, you’ll fall in love, and it will become your full-time passion.
About Francesco Vincenzo Iacono
Since 2012, Francesco Vincenzo Iacono has served as the President and CEO of The Creative Spotlight, the ultimate destination for unearthing a wealth of undiscovered musical talent, reading exciting interviews, releasing new music and sharing exclusive videos.
Every good story needs a good storyteller. And, The Creative Spotlight has truly provided a quality forum for revealing those great stories. Through the years, the online publication has featured national and local musicians such as Ash Costello from New Years Day, Williams Honor, Stacey David Blades, Screaming For Silence, Ages Apart, Roxy Petrucci, Peter Beckett, We The Kings, Everything Falls, Rod Black, Derek Crider, Daniel Mason Band, The Rockin’ Krolik, Michelle Leigh, Jessie G., Karen Mansfield and Hillbilly Vegas.
Additionally, The Creative Spotlight has also focused on historic Pennsylvania-based paranormal venues such as the Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Paranormal investigator Kitsie Duncan, Spirit Medium Tiffany Rice, the Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride, well-known actors, and actresses, published authors, professional artists, local businesses, consultants, trainers, speakers and more…
Francesco earned a BA degree in English/Communications and Marketing from Cabrini College, and he also received a Webmaster Certification from Penn State Great Valley.
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