The Lake Elmo Inn Story

A chef serving food at a buffet station with roasted meats, while smiling and dressed in a white chef uniform and hat.

Black and white newspaper article titled "Former dishwasher ready to 'clean up' as Inn owner" featuring a column by Oliver Towne, discussing the journey of a man from dishwasher to inn owner, including experiences in the culinary field.

Black and white image of a glass of red wine and a Pinot Noir wine bottle on a bar counter in a dimly lit setting.

Three people standing in front of a house with a sign that says 'Beno's' and a small balcony on the house.

1971

Ben’s Elmo Inn

The Lake Elmo Inn has lived many lives — first a saloon, then a true inn, later a bottle shop, and eventually a restaurant. In its modern era, it became known as Ben’s Elmo Inn. It was here, in 1971, that a 16-year-old dishwasher named John Schiltz began his career, unknowingly starting a journey that would shape the future of the Inn.

From Dishwasher to Dreamer

John’s early days at the sink sparked a lifelong passion for food and hospitality. Over time, he worked his way into the kitchen, mastering the craft and developing a vision for what the Inn could become. What started as a teenage job grew into a calling.

Illustration of a dish rack with various kitchen items including plates, cups, bowls, and utensils.

Black and white photo of a smiling male chef wearing a tall chef hat and chef's coat, standing in a kitchen.

1983

Where it started

John refined his skills at top restaurants, including prestigious Hyatt properties in Fortworth, Kansas City, Des Moines, and Minneapolis. In 1983, when his former boss put Ben’s Elmo Inn up for sale, John seized the opportunity to bring his vision to life. At just 27 years old, he purchased the restaurant and restored its historic name:
Lake Elmo Inn.

Illustration of a large house with a "For Sale" sign reading "Ben's Elmo Inn." The house features multiple windows and a stone base.

A chef and a woman smiling together in a modern event space, standing beside a table with a large display of appetizers and desserts.

2006

Expanding the legacy

As the Inn flourished, it became known for its signature touches — refreshing sorbet intermezzos, warm cinnamon towels, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. That same dedication to detail was recognized when John was named Restaurateur of the Year in 2006.

That year also marked another turning point: Christine Schiltz launched Lake Elmo Inn Catering, bringing the Inn’s hallmark cuisine and hospitality to weddings, galas, and events throughout the Twin Cities. What began as a small extension soon became a thriving arm of the business, carrying the Inn’s reputation beyond its historic walls.

Black and white drawing of various vegetables and a knife, including mushrooms, tomato, carrot, garlic, and a slice of citrus.

A two-story building with a sign reading 'Lake Elmo Inn', featuring a gabled roof, multiple windows, and outdoor lighting.

2025

A family tradition

More than fifty years after John’s first shift as a dishwasher, the Lake Elmo Inn remains a timeless gathering place. Today, the Inn is guided not only by John and Christine but also by the next generation of leadership — including his niece and Christine’s son — ensuring the legacy continues with the same passion and care.

The story doesn’t stop there. In 2024, the family expanded its footprint with the opening of 1881 Eating House in the historic Union Depot, honoring the year the Inn’s story began. Together, the Lake Elmo Inn, Lake Elmo Inn Catering, and 1881 Eating House carry forward a tradition of hospitality, community, and culinary excellence.