OPINIONFinancing

Jimmy Buffett wasn't wasting away in Margaritaville

Restaurant Rewind: The pop singer and proponent of a never-ending happy hour was that rare rock star who found nearly as much success in the hospitality business as he did in music. And he did have some company.

If you can play a guitar and sell records, why not parlay your notoriety into a second career as restaurateur?

That questionable line of thinking has led a number of stars to try their hand at the business, usually with unexciting if not disastrous results. But that can’t be said about the late mega-star who epitomized the laid-back lifestyle, the antithesis of what’s needed to succeed in a notoriously frantic trade that requires intense attention to detail.

Jimmy Buffett lent his name, time and money in no less than three restaurant ventures, two of which are still chugging along as exceptions that prove the rule. In this week’s episode of Restaurant Rewind, we look at the business empire Buffett built without blurring his perception as someone who believed happy hour should never end. (In truth, Buffett stopped drinking years ago.)

And he’s not alone. We also take a quick look at two other rockstars-turned-restaurateurs who cultivated an image contrary to Buffett. Consider it a Kiss of appreciation.

Hit play to see what we mean.

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Emerging Brands

Mezeh hopes to ride Mediterranean wave

This fast-casual concept is working to raise brand awareness as consumers increasingly embrace the healthful flavors of shawarma, hummus and harissa.

Financing

Price may not be the only thing hurting restaurant traffic

The Bottom Line: An aging population could be putting some pressure on industry sales, as older people tend to eat out less often.

Technology

The answer to Starbucks' mobile order problem has been there all along

Tech Check: The chain is testing software that sequences orders rather than fulfilling them as they arrive. It’s not a novel idea, but it could make a big difference.

Trending

More from our partners