Bawe Shinholster joins Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment

Cincinnati restaurant personality Bawe Shinholster has joined Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment as general manager of "Bootsy's produced by Jeff Ruby" and as corporate director of service.

Bootsy's, a collaboration between Jeff Ruby and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Bootsy Collins, is scheduled to open across from the Aronoff Center in November.

Offering Spanish and Latin cuisine in what Ruby calls "social dining", Bootsy's will offer tapas and a sushi lounge with a Cincinnati Rock 'N Roll exhibit on the first floor.

Shinholster says he's excited by the new challenge.

"I couldn't be more elated and to be part of this team in this capacity," he says.  "As GM, I'm looking forward to building a team that is focused on providing the best possible dining experience available."

Shinholster, a downtown Cincinnati resident, previously served as the director of service for the Boca Restaurant Group and has worked in management and service positions for the Queen City Restaurant Group.

"Everyone has different stages in the careers where their path changes," he says.   “I've known Jeff for a very long time and the timing couldn't have been more perfect."

Diners can be sure that he’ll never rest on his laurels.

"There are 'top' managers and restaurants all across this country that serve and do things we've never seen,” he says.  “To always have a student mentality even when you are the teacher, that's what drives me.  I am truly blessed to do what I do, and it is tremendously rewarding."

Shinholster is excited about what Bootsy's will add to downtown.

"What Bootsy's will bring to this dining scene will be profound," he says.  "Along with the new additions to Fountain Square and Backstage, we will help contribute to an entertainment district this city so needs."

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Source: Bawe Shinholster, general manager of Bootsy's produced by Jeff Ruby and corporate director of service for Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment
Photography by Scott Beseler