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independents

Operations

James Beard Foundation unveils massive changes to its annual awards

 By Heather Lalley on Sep. 14, 2021

The changes are designed to better promote equity, inclusion and a positive work culture for the independent restaurant awards. The program has been criticized for promoting white chefs and restaurateurs to the exclusion of others.

Workforce

A bad image costs chain restaurants’ new hires—and aid dollars

 By Peter Romeo on Aug. 26, 2021

Independents had an easier time getting staff and federal relief, according to new data from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Financing

New York launches $35M program to promote restaurant hiring despite the tight market

By Peter Romeo on Jul. 30, 2021

Qualifying restaurants will be granted a $5,000 tax credit, payable ahead of their tax filing, for every net new position they add.

Operations

Big-name chefs are opening new restaurants at a fast clip

By Patricia Cobe on Jul. 29, 2021

Not content to rest on their laurels, Alice Waters, Wolfgang Puck, Jose Andres, David Burke and other celeb chefs are launching one or more restaurants post-pandemic.

Operations

A new restaurant changes its business model midway through opening

By Patricia Cobe on Jul. 07, 2021

Little Original Joe’s transitioned from an intimate seated dinner spot to a bustling marketplace—and there’s no looking back.

Operations

It’s been one heck of a year to be a first-time restaurant owner

By Patricia Cobe on Jun. 18, 2021

Smokecraft Modern Barbecue opened last July, and it’s been a nonstop roller-coaster ride for owner Andrew Darneille ever since.

Operations

Creative and innovative Lettuce Entertain You turns 50

By Heather Lalley on Jun. 18, 2021

The Chicago-based multi-concept operator is gearing up for its next half century with the same spirit of inventiveness that has made it an industry leader for decades.

Financing

Financial roundup: Acquisitions ahead for Fat Brands, better sales for STK, Kona Grill, US Foods

By Peter Romeo on May 12, 2021

With vaccinations climbing and restrictions easing, normal conditions--sales levels included--are returning at numerous restaurant chains.

Leadership

National Restaurant Association hires Emily Knight to foster unity

By Peter Romeo on Mar. 22, 2021

The Texas Restaurant Association chief is charged with ensuring the association speaks for all operations, including independents.

Financing

Indies struggle to pay rent, even as chains get current

By Heather Lalley and Jonathan Maze on Feb. 19, 2021

New data suggests wide gaps in the ability to pay between independent restaurants and their chain counterparts.

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