We’re thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality, travel, and tourism, whose insights have shaped the industry. With a deep background in entertainment and events, particularly in expos and conferences, Katarina brings a unique perspective to hotel management and guest experiences. Today, we’re diving into her thoughts on MMI Hotel Group’s exciting return to the Memphis market with their management of the River Inn of Harbor Town, a boutique gem with a rich legacy. From reimagining guest experiences to revitalizing iconic dining spaces, Katarina shares her expert take on what this project means for the city and the hospitality world.
What drew MMI Hotel Group back to the Memphis market, and why is this return so significant for the company?
I think what excites MMI the most is the chance to reconnect with a city where they’ve already built a strong foundation. Memphis holds a special place for them, with past successes like The Memphian Hotel shaping their confidence in this market. Returning to manage the River Inn of Harbor Town feels like a homecoming, but also an opportunity to create something new and impactful. It’s about leveraging their history here to elevate a property that’s already beloved, while bringing fresh energy to the table.
How does managing the River Inn of Harbor Town align with MMI’s broader goals and past experiences in Memphis?
The River Inn fits perfectly into MMI’s portfolio because it combines their knack for boutique properties with their passion for creating memorable guest experiences. Their work in Memphis has always been about capturing the soul of the city, and this project is no different. They’ve learned a lot from past ventures here, particularly how to blend local culture with modern hospitality trends. Managing the River Inn allows them to apply those lessons while honoring the unique vibe of Harbor Town.
What’s the overarching vision for the River Inn under MMI’s leadership?
The vision is all about transformation while staying true to the property’s roots. MMI wants to reimagine the guest experience by enhancing every touchpoint, from the moment someone steps into the lobby to their last bite at one of the dining outlets. It’s about creating a seamless blend of Harbor Town’s charm with innovative ideas that make the hotel feel current and exciting, ensuring it remains a standout in Memphis’s hospitality scene.
Can you elaborate on how MMI plans to preserve the hotel’s unique character while introducing fresh concepts?
Preserving the character of the River Inn means respecting its history and the intimate, boutique feel that guests love. MMI is focused on maintaining that cozy, Southern hospitality while weaving in modern design elements and updated amenities. For instance, they’re looking at ways to highlight the property’s connection to Harbor Town’s new urbanism principles—think local art, community partnerships, and regionally inspired touches. It’s a delicate balance, but they’re committed to keeping the soul of the place intact while making it feel revitalized.
Let’s dive into the dining outlets—Paulette’s Restaurant, Terrace at the River Inn, and Tug’s Casual Grill. What can guests look forward to with the upcoming renovations?
Guests are in for a treat with these updates. The renovations are geared toward enhancing the dining experience at each outlet while reflecting the distinct personality of Harbor Town. Expect refreshed spaces that feel inviting and tied to the local culture, with menus and aesthetics that pay homage to Memphis’s rich heritage. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at Paulette’s or a casual bite at Tug’s, the goal is to make each spot a destination in its own right, with a renewed focus on quality and atmosphere.
How will MMI’s experience with food and beverage operations, like at The Memphian Hotel, shape the dining updates at River Inn?
MMI’s track record with dining concepts at The Memphian has given them a deep understanding of how to craft standout food and beverage experiences. They’ve honed their ability to create spaces that resonate with both locals and travelers, blending creativity with a sense of place. At River Inn, they’ll draw on those lessons to ensure the dining outlets aren’t just places to eat, but places to connect and feel the pulse of Memphis. You’ll likely see a similar flair—think bold flavors and unique vibes—tailored to fit Harbor Town’s distinct identity.
The approach to reintroducing the River Inn has been described as “bold and relevant.” Can you break down what that means in practical terms?
“Bold and relevant” is about making a statement while staying connected to what matters to the community. Practically, it means rethinking how the hotel operates and engages with guests—whether that’s through striking design updates, innovative dining menus, or events that draw in locals. It’s a shift from simply maintaining the status quo to pushing boundaries, ensuring the River Inn feels like a must-visit spot that reflects the energy of Memphis today while still honoring its past.
What specific upgrades or investments are planned to enhance the River Inn property and its offerings?
There’s a significant commitment to elevating every aspect of the property. The focus is on both guest-facing and behind-the-scenes improvements—think updated rooms, modernized facilities, and a major refresh of the dining spaces. Resources are being poured into making sure the infrastructure supports a top-notch experience, from technology upgrades to design enhancements. The dining outlets, in particular, are getting a lot of attention to ensure they can compete with the best in the city while maintaining their unique charm.
What’s your forecast for the future of boutique hotels like River Inn in markets like Memphis?
I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of boutique hotels in markets like Memphis. These properties have a unique ability to offer personalized, authentic experiences that larger chains often can’t match. With MMI’s focus on local integration and innovative guest experiences, I think we’ll see boutique hotels like River Inn become even more central to the travel landscape. They’ll continue to attract guests who crave something different—something tied to the heart of the city. My forecast is that these hotels will thrive by doubling down on community connections and creating spaces that feel like a true reflection of their surroundings.
