The Innkeepers
We invite you to meet our team members and learn more about the people who make Red Circle Inn a one-of-a-kind dining destination.
Executive Chef
Joe Heppe
Heppe grew up in Hartland, Wis., and in his early years worked in kitchens around Milwaukee, including Gracious Catering and Bjonda. After moving to Chicago, he joined the city's highly reputable restaurant scene, which began to greatly influence his style. The Indian-Latin fusion restaurant Vermilion and Chef Jose Garce's Mercat a la Planxa were the first to make an impact on Heppe. His next move was opening Untitled as the executive chef, followed by Oak + Char, known for its open hearth cooking. During Heppe's time in Chicago, the restaurants he tenured received high praise and numerous awards.
He went on to become executive chef at Edgewater Hotel in Madison before returning to Lake Country in 2017 as executive chef at Geronimo Hospitality Group's I.d. inside The Delafield Hotel. He's bringing his culinary style to Red Circle Inn, working closely with local farmers, small business owners and diners to create a dining experience that's truly unique to Red Circle Inn.
General Manager
Rocky Kitzman
A Wisconsin native, Rocky Kitzman went to Las Vegas after high school to pursue a career in carpentry. After five years, he moved back to Wisconsin and decided to change career paths. Starting in the kitchen, Rocky quickly realized his passion for food and wine, which led him to serving and, eventually, management.
Today, he is a certified Sommelier with management experience at renowned restaurants like Yolan (Nashville, TN), the fine authentic Italian restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Tony Mantuano, and Geronimo Hospitality Group's very own Velvet Buffalo Modern Italian (Beloit, WI).
Rocky brings his passion for food and wine to Red Circle Inn, where he oversees restaurant operations and private events, while building lasting relationships with staff and guests at the Inn.
Assistant General Manager
Erin Spieker
Erin is no stranger to the hospitality scene. A Wisconsin native, she began her career working as a server at Chenequa Country Club in Hartland, Wisconsin. While serving she gained valuable skills which eventually led her to being promoted to the dining room manager. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2022. As assistant general manager, Erin helps oversee kitchen and dining room operations while ensuring guests have exceptional service from the moment they walk through the door and upholding the reputation Red Circle Inn has had for generations.