independents

Danny Meyer steps down as head of Union Square Hospitality Group

By Joe Guszkowski on Aug. 01, 2022

He'll be succeeded by President and COO Chip Wade, who has been in line for the job since he was hired in 2019.

Lunchbox launches free online ordering system for independents

By Joe Guszkowski on Jun. 28, 2022

Lunchbox Essential allows small operators to create their own online ordering site, extending the company’s reach into the indie market.

Emerging Brands

José Andrés finally gets a restaurant in a former Trump-owned D.C. building

By Heather Lalley on Jun. 14, 2022

The Nobel Prize-nominated chef and the former president waged a legal battle over a restaurant in the Old Post Office building, after Trump made disparaging comments about immigrants.

Premium

Marketing

The James Beard Awards return from the pandemic with an equity makeover

By Heather Lalley on May 26, 2022

The awards, widely considered the “Oscars of the food world,” took a two-year pause to try to become more diverse, equitable and inclusive to give more chefs access to the potentially career-changing prize.

Technology

For many small restaurants, ghost kitchens fail to deliver

By Joe Guszkowski on May 16, 2022

Independent operators have struggled to make the model work, citing marketing challenges and the high cost of delivery.

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Technology

Ghost kitchens prove a dead end for many restaurants

By Joe Guszkowski on May 12, 2022

Independent operators say the delivery-only business is more difficult than it’s cracked up to be. Their challenges have led providers to rethink their strategy.

Marketing

Where to dine in Chicago during the National Restaurant Association Show

By Patricia Cobe and Heather Lalley on Apr. 29, 2022

It’s been three years since the last big Show, and the city’s restaurant scene has changed. Here are some of the best places to snag a table with your team or clients.

Premium

Financing

With funding hard to come by, some restaurants turn to their tech suppliers for loans

By Joe Guszkowski on Apr. 21, 2022

Loans from companies like Toast and Square may be more accessible than traditional sources, but they highlight a larger problem with financing for mom and pops.

Leadership