Dan Sidner

Dan Sidner is a seasoned restaurateur with over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Before planting roots in Wisconsin, he operated fine dining restaurants across Texas, North Carolina, Washington State, and Colorado. A 1990 graduate of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, Dan began his career in hotel food and beverage before transitioning to independent restaurants. He owned and operated Zino Ristorante in Colorado’s Vail Valley for six years before making the move to Wisconsin. 
 
In 2007, Dan partnered with Chef Joe Muench to open Maxie’s, bringing Southern-inspired flavors to Milwaukee. Their success led to the openings of Blue’s Egg (2010) and Story Hill BKC (2014), with the pair officially forming Black Shoe Hospitality to encompass their growing restaurant group. Since then, they’ve expanded their reach with Black Shoe Catering and Blue’s Egg + Bakery, continuing to bring thoughtful, high-quality dining experiences to the community. 
 
In recognition of their dedication to hospitality, Black Shoe Hospitality was named a James Beard Foundation semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurateur in both 2022 and 2023. 
 
Dan lives in Wauwatosa with his wife, Jeanne, and their children, Grace, Jack, and Shea.