fine dining

Why early evening has become the hottest time to dine out

By Joe Guszkowski on Oct. 11, 2023

Remote work, inflation and even Netflix could be driving consumers to eat dinner earlier, particularly at higher-end restaurants.

Premium

Emerging Brands

Salt Bae's restaurants look to start new chapter after poor reviews

By Joe Guszkowski on Aug. 23, 2023

The celebrity chef’s Nusr-Et steakhouse chain is embracing eatertainment, while the recently closed SaltBae Burger is already plotting a U.S. comeback.

Premium

Operations

Jeff and Mike Mastro get second chance to do steakhouses differently with Steak 48

By Lisa Jennings on Aug. 18, 2023

They founded and sold the Mastro's chain. Now the brothers are building a new group of high-end steakhouses that attempt to raise the bar.

Financing

Olive Garden's parent is preparing for a slowing economy

By Joe Guszkowski on Jun. 22, 2023

Stagnant spending will keep a lid on growth at Darden Restaurants over the next 12 months, but it still expects to outpace the industry.

Operations

Cooper's Hawk closes Esquire, its downtown Chicago wine destination

By Joe Guszkowski on May 25, 2023

CEO Tim McEnery said the pandemic and rising costs contributed to the decision to close the lavish three-story restaurant.

Food

10 Chicago restaurants to try during the National Restaurant Association Show

By Patricia Cobe on May 10, 2023

After walking the Show floor at McCormick Place, it’s time to kick back those tired feet and take a seat at one of Chicago’s top restaurants.

Financing

With Ruth's Chris deal, Darden doubles down on fine dining

By Joe Guszkowski on May 04, 2023

The 154-unit steakhouse chain will more than double the company's fine-dining footprint. But it won't compete with Darden's other upscale concepts, executives said.

Food

How Aaron Taylor and Atlas Restaurant Group are revitalizing fine dining in Baltimore

By Patricia Cobe on Apr. 06, 2023

As corporate chef-partner overseeing 27 restaurants, Taylor designs menus for everyone’s taste, from a $9 burger to a $162 Japanese Wagyu porterhouse steak.

Operations