Breakfast-and-lunch chain Snooze Eatery has hired Josh Kern as CEO, two weeks after Kern left his post as CEO of SPB Hospitality.
Kern replaces David Birzon, who had been Snooze’s CEO for 13 years. Birzon will join the chain’s board of directors.
Kern has more than 25 years of experience in restaurants, including nearly seven at SPB, the owner of Logan’s Roadhouse, Krystal, J. Alexander’s and other concepts. Before that, he held leadership roles at Outback Steakhouse, Smashburger, Tom’s Watch Bar and American Blue Ribbon Holdings.
“I am thrilled to join Snooze and to help take this incredible brand to its next chapter,” Kern said in a statement. “Snooze has changed the way people think about breakfast and brunch with bold food, creative cocktails and a culture that puts genuine hospitality at the center of everything. The opportunity ahead is massive, and I cannot wait to work alongside the Snooze family to keep innovating, growing and delivering something truly special for every guest.”
Founded in 1996 in Denver, Snooze became part of a growing crop of so-called daytime dining chains that focus solely on breakfast and lunch, often with innovative menus and booze. The chain has been expanding rapidly in recent years, going from 40 units in 2019 to 71 last year, according to Technomic data. Systemwide sales rose 2.5% in 2024, to more than $201 million.
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.