Emerging Brands

9 up-and-coming independent restaurants

The MCOs behind some of the top-grossing independents (Page 48) have been busy. They are launching new concepts in an admittedly tumultuous climate. But they’ve already cracked the code in running some of the country’s biggest restaurants, and they’re adopting similar formulas when launching these new brands. 

1. Tomato Palace

Columbia, Md. 
Reconcepted as a live music venue.
Clyde’s Restaurant Group

2. Gibsons Italia

Chicago
Touted as an upscale Italian steakhouse.
Gibsons Restaurant Group

3. Seaside’s

Chicago
Takeout and delivery spot serving fried chicken, ribs and lobster.
Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises

4. Upland

Miami
The second location of the California-inspired Italian concept.
Starr Restaurants

5. Luchini Pizzeria & Bar

Los Angeles
Tao's foray into fast-casual pizza
Tao Group

6. The Highlight Room

Los Angeles
A rooftop, poolside lounge and grill.
Tao Group

7. Fishbowl

New York City
Dubbed a "retro adult playground" with arcade games, pinball and bowling.
Tao Group

8. Woolworth on 5th

Nashville
A soon-to-open multistory homage to soul food and soul music. 
TomKats Hospitality

9. Jaleo

Orlando (Disney Springs)
Chef Jose Andres will take his Spanish spot to Disney in 2018.
Think Food Group

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