Monday, January 24, 2022

Omicron Variant Hit Restaurant Industry Hard; Replenishing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Forecast to Save 1.6 Million Jobs
A new survey from National Restaurant Association shows 900,000 jobs saved with the first round of RRF Funding.
WASHINGTON, DC (StLouisRestaurantReview) The National Restaurant Association today released new survey data highlighting the devastating impact the omicron variant has had so far and the positive impact the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) had on the industry.  In a letter to Congress, the Association highlighted that the survey shows that the first round of RRF funding saved more than 900,000 jobs and helped 96% of recipients of a grant stay in business.

In addition, the survey found:

- Nearly 50% of restaurant operators that did not receive RRF grants feel it's unlikely that they will stay in business beyond the pandemic without a grant.
- 94% of restaurant operators that applied for an RRF grant, but did not receive funding, said a future grant would enable them to retain or hire back employees.

"This highlights how impactful RRF replenishment would be.  Our own estimates indicate that replenishing the RRF would save an additional 1.6 million restaurant jobs," said Sean Kennedy, executive vice president for Public Affairs at the National Restaurant Association.  "The RRF was a critical lifeline to many, but far more remain on the sidelines, desperately looking for support amidst continued economic uncertainty.  The decisions you make in the coming weeks will be critical toward the future of the restaurants that are so proud to serve your communities."

The restaurant industry was hit hard by the latest surge of COVID-19 cases caused by the omicron variant.  Forced to adapt to deteriorating consumer confidence, restaurants reduced hours/days of operation, cut seating capacity, and shut down, pivoting to off-premises dining, with the end result being lower sales volumes in 2021 than in 2019.

According to the survey, we know:

- 88% of restaurants experienced a decline in customer demand for indoor on-premises dining because of the omicron variant.
- 76% of operators report that business conditions are worse now than three months ago.
- 74% say their restaurant is less profitable now than it was before the pandemic.

"The new data show that restaurant recovery is paralyzed and nowhere near complete.  The restaurant industry is at an inflection point, and we need your leadership now more than ever.  Congress must act now to replenish the RRF in the upcoming legislative package to fund the government," said Kennedy in the letter.

On Monday, January 24, 2021, at noon ET, the Association will be joined by two small business restaurant operators at a press conference to discuss how replenishing the RRF would impact their businesses and their employees.  Kennedy will also be joined by Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of Research for the Association, to provide the latest overview of the state of the restaurant industry.  For more information about the press conference, email media@restaurant.org.

Read the full letter to Congress here.

The National Restaurant Association Research Group conducted the COVID-19 Restaurant Impact Survey of 4,200 restaurant operators on January 16-18, 2022.  Read the report of key findings here.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/national-restaurant-association-replenish-covid-fund/

Thursday, January 20, 2022

ST LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) A ghost kitchen is a restaurant that is not an actual restaurant, but a food preparation facility.  These businesses are set up for delivery only, and some even have drive-throughs.  They don't have a physical storefront or indoor seating, and they are not considered restaurants.  This gives them a unique appeal for people who prefer to eat in the privacy of their own homes.  Listed below are some examples of restaurants with ghost kitchens.

Creating a ghost kitchen can help you expand your customer base and streamline your flagship restaurant's operations.  Unlike a traditional restaurant, you can operate a ghost kitchen without spending a lot of money upfront.  The best thing about a ghost kitchen is that it's easy to set up and requires minimal upfront costs.  A ghost kitchen can be anything from a small cafe to a full-service restaurant.  The cost of setting up a ghost room can be surprisingly low, so it's a great choice for many new businesses.

A ghost kitchen allows you to optimize your food costs and margins.  By reducing your menu, you can focus on specific products and attract more sit-in customers.  You can also offer rewards to your loyal customers and run a marketing campaign around the test.  Remember, a ghost kitchen is just a test, so it's important to make the right decision about the delivery option for your business.  The more customers you have, the more profits you'll make.

Besides a ghost kitchen, you can also list your restaurant on third-party platforms.  These services allow you to get exposure by listing your restaurant on different websites.  To make this possible, you must provide information about your restaurant, including a menu and contact information.  This will help people find you and order your food without any trouble. You can also get customers to sign up for a third-party app.  However, it's important to note that a ghost kitchen is not as easy to open as a regular restaurant.

A ghost kitchen is completely dependent on 3rd-party delivery apps.  It can receive orders from restaurants that have the capital to open a physical restaurant.  It only requires space for cooks and customers.  The food can be delivered to the customer's home or a third-party venue.  As a result, it is a great option for food truck owners.  The ghost kitchen is not as expensive as you may think.  If you plan to start a ghost kitchen in an expensive area, consider hiring a professional service to help you.

Once you have set up your ghost kitchen, it's time to start planning your menu. You should focus on developing menus that reflect the tastes of your target market.  For example, a vegan-friendly concept may be the most popular among millennials.  Once you've selected the right food concept for your restaurant, you can focus on perfecting the recipes.  Once you've made it, you can start working on your menu.  If you already have an existing restaurant, you can create one with a ghost kitchen.

Some restaurants will choose to have their ghost kitchens delivered to customers.  This way, they can focus on developing the most appealing menu for their target market.  It will be easy for them to serve their customers, and they will be able to focus on delivering their food to their doorsteps.  The best ghost kitchens are efficient. The best ones will include a full inventory of equipment and a staff that is experienced in the dishes they are serving.

While ghost kitchens can be profitable, they do not have the best reputation among customers.  It's not only a nightmare for the local community, but it's also a disaster for brand awareness.  A ghost kitchen will need to compete with hundreds of other restaurants, and they have to provide a quality product.  If you can't compete with those brands, it's hard to stay in business long term.  If you want to succeed, you'll need to make it popular online.

A ghost kitchen isn't a legitimate restaurant.  It's a digital extension of a brick-and-mortar establishment.  It helps a restaurant reach a niche audience that might otherwise not be able to reach.  A traditional brick-and-mortar business needs to deliver its services to a local area.  A ghost kitchen doesn't require any of that. It simply needs to provide an optimized delivery system.  This way, it can attract new customers.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/how-to-start-a-ghost-kitchen-for-online-ordering-delivery/

Tuesday, January 18, 2022

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Opens Applications for $1 Million in Scholarships and Grants.
WASHINGTON, DC (StLouisRestaurantReview) On Saturday, January 15, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) will begin accepting applications for more than $1 million in scholarships and grants available to individuals pursuing a secondary degree in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industry.

NRAEF scholarships and grants seek to lighten the financial burden of secondary education and support future leaders in the industry.  In 2021, as students continued to face unprecedented pandemic and economic challenges, the NRAEF awarded $1.1 million in scholarships and individual grants to more than 300 students at more than 130 colleges and universities across 44 states and territories.  Nearly 60 percent of 2021 scholarship recipients were Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC); half were first-generation college students, and 70 percent were women.

"I plan to use my education to open up my own high-end pastry shop that gives back to the community in a meaningful way, both by employing people with barriers to employment through job training programs and also by giving a percentage of proceeds back to the community," said Stephanie Loo, a 2021 NRAEF scholarship recipient who is majoring in baking and pastry arts at the Institute of Culinary Education.  "My dream to own a pastry shop is an opportunity to bring joy to a neighborhood and grow employees from all walks of life.  The financial assistance through NRAEF is a huge help in realizing both my short-term and long-term career goals."

NRAEF scholarships range from $2,500 to $10,000 and can be used towards tuition and fees, books, room, and board, as well as other school-related expenses.  The scholarships have no age restrictions.  Therefore, all who are pursuing higher education in a restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality-related field are encouraged to apply – including recent high-school graduates, military service members, adults looking to make a career change, or individuals at various education levels.

"These scholarships are intended to help the next generation of leaders in our industry realize their dreams through higher education," said Rob Gifford, president of the NRAEF.  "Their resilience, talent, and energy will be crucial in the years ahead, and I hope everyone eligible will take the time to apply."

This year's NRAEF scholarships are funded by our generous partners, including:

- Burger King Foundation
- The Coca-Cola Company
- Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers
- Hormel
- The J.M. Smucker Company
- PepsiCo
- Rachael Ray Foundation
- Rich Family Foundation
- SPB Foundation
- Women's Foodservice Forum
- Yum-o!

The deadline to apply is March 15, 2022, and applications can be completed through the NRAEF's online portal – ChooseRestaurants.org/Scholarships.
About the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF)
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation's mission of service to the public is dedicated to enhancing the industry's training and education, career development, and community engagement efforts.  The NRAEF and its programs work to Attract, Empower and Advance today's and tomorrow's restaurant and food service workforce.

NRAEF programs include: ProStart® – a high-school career and technical education program; Restaurant Ready – partnering with community-based organizations to provide opportunity youth and justice-involved individuals with skills training and job opportunities; Military – helping military servicemen and women transition their skills to restaurant and foodservice careers; Scholarships – financial assistance for students pursuing restaurant, foodservice and hospitality degrees; and the Hospitality Sector Registered Apprenticeship project – a partnership with the American Hotel & Lodging Association providing a hospitality apprenticeship program for the industry.  To learn more about the NRAEF and its work, visit ChooseRestaurants.org.

SOURCE: National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation via PRNewswire - released January 14, 2022
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/nra-education-foundation-opens-for-applications/

Monday, January 17, 2022

ST LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Below is a list of holidays that restaurant owners can use to create specials and promotional events to help stimulate business.  Of course, Valentine's Day is the best holiday for February, but planning should begin now.

- National Freedom Day 2022 - Tuesday, February 1st
- Chinese New Year 2022 - Tuesday, February 1st
- Groundhog Day 2022 - Wednesday, February 2nd
- Valentine's Day 2022 - Monday, February 14th

If you have or create a unique or promotional event, please send us an email, and we will publish it to help increase visibility.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/restaurant-promotional-opportunities-for-february-2022/
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day for Breakfast Day on Saturday, February 5, 2022
New Specialty Breakfast Flavors, Dancakes Pancake Artists, Pajama Contests & Giveaways from Tiffany & Co.
ST. LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Enjoy Breakfast at Clementine's for National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, February 5, 2020.

Several new flavors created especially for the day will be available for purchase, including Strawberry Crunch (vegan and gluten-free), Captain Brunch, Liege Waffle, Cinful Bunz (boozy), Lady Marmalade (vegan), Blueberry Crumble (vegan), and Reishi & Chaga (vegan), in addition to traditional favorites.

The first 50 households in line will receive a free limited edition coffee mug (one mug per transaction).  Pajamas are encouraged as fun photo opportunities and contests will last throughout the morning with giveaways from Tiffany & Co., gift cards from Clementine's, and free pancake art by Dancakes at select locations.  Masks and social distancing are encouraged while waiting in line.

Guests are invited to visit one of six ice cream shops for the celebrations, located at:

- 1637 S. 18th Street in historic Lafayette Square
- 730 DeMun in Clayton
- 4715 Macklind in the South Hampton neighborhood
- 140 W. Argonne Drive in Kirkwood
- 13426 Clayton Road in Town & Country
- The Meadows Shopping Center in Lake St. Louis

Follow Clementine's Creamery on Instagram and Facebook for more details.

Clementine's Naughty & Nice Creamery is the only micro-creamery in the state of Missouri.  All of the dairy used in their creations is from local, grass-fed, pasture-raised, hormone and RBST-free cows.  Clementine's combines their all-natural proprietary dairy base with the finest handpicked ingredients to churn up a decadent 16-18% butterfat ice cream.  In addition to ice cream, sorbet, and French bistro roast coffee, Clementine's also carries a delicious line of boozy ice cream delights, trendy merchandise, and gift cards.

To order online or to ship nationwide, visit www.clementinescreamery.com.

SOURCE: Clementine's via email.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/celebrate-national-ice-cream-for-breakfast-day-on-saturday-february-5/

Saturday, January 15, 2022

Marco's Pizza® Jumps 20-Plus Spots on Entrepreneur's Highly Competitive Franchise 500®
Leading Pizza Franchise Earns No. 2 Ranking in Pizza Category, Prioritizes Strategic Nationwide Expansion in 2022
TOLEDO, Ohio, Jan. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Marco's Pizza, one of the nation's fastest-growing pizza brands, was recognized as No. 70 on Entrepreneur's 2022 Franchise 500®, the world's first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. The 43rd annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500® is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry. Marco's moved up more than 20 spots, previously ranking No. 92 in 2021. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the 2022 Franchise 500® also ranks Marco's Pizza as No. 2 in the pizza category for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

The 1,000-plus unit brand grew store counts almost 10% in 2021 with more than 70 store openings, all while achieving continuous double-digit same-store-sales record increases year-over-year and over 130 signed agreements. To build off this successful momentum, Marco's has set a vision to become the No. 4 pizza brand in America with aggressive expansion goals to open over 150 stores in 2022 as it seeks multi-unit operators throughout the United States and internationally. Marco's proven performance coupled with high-tier franchise support has resulted in eager and sophisticated entrepreneurs and multi-unit operators flocking to the franchise opportunity.

"Being recognized No. 2 in the pizza category and jumping to No. 70 overall is a great honor – an honor I share with our dedicated franchisees, hard-working team members, our loyal guests and our dedicated executive leadership team, who are the true makeup of this brand," said Tony Libardi, Co-CEO & President of Marco's Pizza. "The future of the industry remains strong and vibrant. Our growth strategy has been centered on finding the right multi-unit franchise partners who want to grow with the brand all while executing with strong operations, and we look forward to a momentous 2022 as we build on our achievements, inch closer toward major brand milestones, and grow our nationwide presence."

In Entrepreneur's continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company's 43-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order.

"The past year has been one of the most challenging for businesses in recent memory, which made putting together our 43rd annual Franchise 500 list more enlightening than ever," says Entrepreneur Editor in Chief Jason Feifer. "The companies named to this year's list showed us how being resilient, supportive, and nimble can help navigate extraordinary challenges and also underscore the grit and innovation that define entrepreneurship."

Over its 43 years in existence, the Franchise 500® has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Marco's position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

Marco's Pizza continues to grow at a rapid pace, projecting a new store opening every two and a half days on average in 2022. According to FRANdata, a leading research and advisory firm that analyzes the franchise market, Marco's 2021 FUND Score is in the top 1% of all evaluated franchise systems and is among the top three scores for all QSR brands. The Top 50% of Marco's franchised stores generated $1,059,574 AUV for 2020*.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/marcos-pizza-entrepreneurs-highly-c/
Brinker International Appoints Romona Hoot to Board of Directors
DALLAS, TX (StLouisRestaurantReview) The following release was published on January 11th.  We make it available because it is the parent company of restaurants located in the St. Louis region, including Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy.  The release is as follows:

Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's® Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy® and two virtual brands: It's Just Wings® and Maggiano's® Italian Classics, announces the appointment of Ramona Hood to its Board of Directors.

Hood is an accomplished executive with deep experience in sales, operations, supply chain, marketing, and talent management.  She currently serves as president and chief executive officer of FedEx Custom Critical®.  Before this role, Hood led teams in numerous FedEx operating companies, including FedEx Custom Critical, FedEx Supply Chain, and FedEx Truckload Brokerage.  Additionally, Hood serves on the board of Summa Health Systems and formerly served on the board for Welty Building Company.

"Ramona brings significant business leadership, strategic thinking, and a broad range of experience – from operations to marketing – to our board," said Wyman Roberts, president, and chief executive officer of Brinker International.  "Her expertise and experience in a dynamic, customer-facing service business, along with her proven track record of driving growth and innovation, leveraging technology to improve operations, and leading a large, distributed organization, will help us continue to grow and differentiate our brands."
About Brinker International, Inc.
Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's® Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy® and two virtual brands: It's Just Wings® and Maggiano's® Italian Classics.  Founded by Norman Brinker in Dallas, Texas, they have ventured far from home but stayed true to our roots.  Brinker owns, operates, or franchises more than 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two U.S. territories.  Their passion is making people feel special, and we hope you feel that passion each time you visit one of their restaurants or invite them into your home through takeout or delivery.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/brinker-international-appoints-romona-hood-to-board/
Brinker International Appoints Romona Hoot to Board of Directors
DALLAS, TX (StLouisRestaurantReview) The following release was published on January 11th.  We make it available because it is the parent company of restaurants located in the St. Louis region, including Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy.  The release is as follows:

Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's® Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy® and two virtual brands: It's Just Wings® and Maggiano's® Italian Classics, announces the appointment of Ramona Hood to its Board of Directors.

Hood is an accomplished executive with deep experience in sales, operations, supply chain, marketing, and talent management.  She currently serves as president and chief executive officer of FedEx Custom Critical®.  Before this role, Hood led teams in numerous FedEx operating companies, including FedEx Custom Critical, FedEx Supply Chain, and FedEx Truckload Brokerage.  Additionally, Hood serves on the board of Summa Health Systems and formerly served on the board for Welty Building Company.

"Ramona brings significant business leadership, strategic thinking, and a broad range of experience – from operations to marketing – to our board," said Wyman Roberts, president, and chief executive officer of Brinker International.  "Her expertise and experience in a dynamic, customer-facing service business, along with her proven track record of driving growth and innovation, leveraging technology to improve operations, and leading a large, distributed organization, will help us continue to grow and differentiate our brands."
About Brinker International, Inc.
Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's® Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy® and two virtual brands: It's Just Wings® and Maggiano's® Italian Classics.  Founded by Norman Brinker in Dallas, Texas, they have ventured far from home but stayed true to our roots.  Brinker owns, operates, or franchises more than 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two U.S. territories.  Their passion is making people feel special, and we hope you feel that passion each time you visit one of their restaurants or invite them into your home through takeout or delivery.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/brinker-international-appoints-romona-hood-to-board/
Proven methods to increase restaurant sales for every type of restaurant
ST LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Many restaurant owners face difficult times created by the pandemic, supply chain interruptions, and staff shortages.  Naturally, increasing sales is a great strategy to avoid financial ruin.  However, we strongly encourage you to know your financial information to price your menu items correctly.
After ensuring that your menu items are correctly priced, we recommend the following proven methods to increase restaurant sales:

- Strong web presence - have a massive web presence on Google, Bing, social media, and all review sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and more.
- Offer online order and delivery - some options exist for restaurants to offer online ordering and delivery without increasing expenses.  Delivery by third-party delivery companies starts at $6.99 paid for by the customers requiring delivery.  CLICK to learn more.
- Offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options - these menu items are increasing in popularity for various reasons.  Most restaurants have the items to properly list themselves as vegetarian-friendly, with vegan and gluten-free options.  Market these items using these titles to make it easy for consumers to identify them.  CLICK to learn more.
- Offer tasty foods - this is easier than ever before with billions of recipes online.  The need for expensive chefs is disappearing as more restaurants adapt recipes and train cooks to prepare award-winning cuisines using proven recipes.
- Excellent service - diners are demanding, which they deserve to be.  They are spending their time and hard-earned money to visit a restaurant for the experience, spend time with loved ones or friends, or save time cooking at home.  Restaurant owners fail to recognize what events are taking place inside their establishment daily.  People are interviewing for jobs, interviewing sole mates, discussing business relationships, discussing divorce, and so much more.  Staffing is a problem now, but a well-trained server that understands expectations can an attractive wage with high tips.  Most consumers are generous if they appreciate the experience.  Servers need to be monitored to ensure they serve the customers to meet expectations.  If a server is not correctly representing the establishment, pull them off the floor, increase training and warn them of their deficiencies.  If the problem continues, you have no other option than to reposition them or replacing them.  Quality service is just as important as food quality.  Maybe more for some diners.

These are some of the most effective strategies to help increase sales.  Our opinion is that these are critical to survive and make money in the restaurant industry.  Unfortunately, if you, the owners, do not deal with poor food and service issues, consumers will resort to Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and more review sites to express their dissatisfaction.  Not a good option!
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/proven-methods-to-increase-restaurant-sales/
Restaurant Owners Alert - Revise Menu Prices - the cost of goods increases, and you cannot afford to absorb the increases.
ST LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) As inflation has taken center stage with the news media and impacted all of our wallets, it is more important than ever for restaurant owners to price their menu options correctly.

The most common mistake we see with small independent restaurant owners is that they want to be competitive to gain market share, thinking that increased sales will help them avoid financial disaster.  However, the truth is that if a restaurant runs negative profit margins and increases sales, it will dig a deeper hole faster.

Restaurant owners must know their numbers.  They know the financial ratios like food cost as a percentage of overall sales.  IMPORTANT, VERY IMPORTANT!

Consulting with many restaurants, we see owners pricing menu items without even knowing the overall expenses.

Many restaurants that fail have sales.  They go out of business.  They sell their menu items at a loss because they do not know their numbers.

Recently, we assisted two restaurants.  One has not increased prices since 2012.  However, rent has increased, prices have increased, wages have increased, and they raised their items by $1.00.  The other restaurant compared their prices to a competing restaurant with an entirely different market, different customer base, and less expensive rent.  The increase in menu items was insufficient to cover the rise in prices.  Therefore, the restaurant owners still struggle to stay in business.

Restaurant owners can't price menu items without using a metric that considers their current expenses.  Therefore, we strongly recommend that restaurant owners review their menu prices monthly to avoid this financial mistake that can destroy their establishment.

If a restaurant has strong sales but losing money, it is likely due to a poorly priced menu.

Quickbooks have made it easier than ever for small businesses to have the same quality of information that large companies have.  You can integrate your bank account to download the transactions saving time and increasing accuracy.  Good accounting does take time, but it is more important than ever.  More than 15% of restaurants have closed their doors permanently.  Don't become part of that statistic.  Good accounting is the most crucial management task that a restaurant owner needs to love and appreciate to avoid massive financial errors.  It is Business 101!
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/restaurant-owners-alert-revise-menu-prices/
Top-10 Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis that offer vegan and gluten-free options.
ST LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Top-10 Vegetarian Restaurants in St. Louis - Dining out can be a problem for diners that choose or require specific diets.  Therefore, we search for the Top-10 restaurant in St. Louis that is Vegetarian friendly, with vegan and gluten-free options.  Being a vegetarian, I realize how difficult it can be for some people.  Most restaurants have dishes that can fit all of these.  Still, there is promotional value for them to specific their options to make it easy for customers.  It should be promoted online as many diners search for these options for visiting a restaurant.

Consumers turning to be vegetarian are increasing, and it can be a good market for restaurants that have the forward-looking skills to expand menu options that consumers search online.  Most vegetarians are disciplined and dedicated to their lifestyles, making them loyal customers.  Unfortunately, most restaurants have the items already but fail to promote them, specifically vegetarian-friendly or vegan and gluten-free options.  Restaurant owners should reconsider presenting items on their menus to expand their customer base online.
Common reasons consumers become vegetarian:

- To lose weight permanently
- To prevent disease
- Increase life expectancy
- Animal compassion
- Enhanced energy
- Avoid toxic chemicals infused
- Save money

Most popular vegetarian dishes for restaurants according to CKitchen.com:

- Cauliflower Pizza Crust
- Cauliflower Steaks
- Fries in Many Forms
- Zoodle
- Smoothie Bowls
- Grain Bowls
- Portabella Mushroom Burgers
- Cashew Cheese and Fruit Plate
- Dairy-Free Vegan Ice Cream
- Cupcakes for Vegan Menu

Top-10 Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis with vegan and gluten-free options are as follows as of January 15, 2022:

- Hendel's - 599 Saint Denis Street, Florissant, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-837-2304
- Anthonino's Taverna LLC - 2225 Macklind Avenue, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-773-4455
- Charlie Gitto's on the Hill - 5226 Shaw Avenue, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-772-8898
- Dewey's Pizza - 559 N and South Road, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-726-3434
- Grbic Restaurant - 4071 Keokuk Street, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-772-3100
- Eleven Eleven Mississippi - 1111 Mississippi Avenue, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-241-9999
- Roberto's Trattoria & Chophouse - 145 Concord Plaza, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 842-9998
- The Fountain on Locust - 3037 Locust Street, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-535-7800
- Kobe Steak House of Japan - 645 West Port Plaza, Maryland Heights, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-469-3900
- Rooster - 1104 Locust St, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-241-8118

Special Mentions:

- Pastaria - 7734 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-862-6603
- The Crossing - 7823 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-721-7375
- Pi Pizzeria - 610 Washington Ave, Saint Louis, MO - Phone: +1 314-727-6633

Our list is based solely on online customer reviews.  Being ranked on this list has not been paid or sponsored by any restaurants.

SPECIAL NOTE: We have not independently verified that these establishments accurately classified their menu on the database.  We recommend that you call before dining to verify the information.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/top-10-vegetarian-friendly-restaurants-st-louis/

Thursday, January 13, 2022

Tradicional 314 is a new Mexican restaurant located in Creve Coeur that will be offering online ordering and delivery.
CREVE COEUR,  MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Tradicional 314 is a locally owned Mexican restaurant offering authentic Mexican food to the Creve Coeur and surrounding communities.  Opening in October 2021, Tradicional 314 is racking up impressive online customer reviews with a 4.6 Star rating by Google with more than 60 reviews.

Tradicional 314 is excited to announce that they will be making online ordering available and delivering for up to 5 miles from their location in Creve Coeur.  The launch date is anticipated on or before January 20, 2022.

Tradicional 314 is affiliated with Tradicional 636, located 1411 South 1st Capitol Drive, St. Charles, Missouri - phone +1 636-724-2627.  Owners/managers are Marco Enriquez and Manuel Ornelas.
Tradicional 314 offers:

- Clean and beautiful atmosphere with a bar
- Online ordering and delivery (coming soon)
- Appetizers
- Ensaladas (Salads)
- Specials (Monday thru Friday)
- Platillos Todo El Dia (Dinner All Day)
- Quesabirria Tacos
- Quesadillas
- Burritos
- Tortas
- Enchiladas
- Flautas
- Huaraches
- Sopes & Gorditas
- Pelliscadas Ueracruzanas
- Fajitas
- Tostadas
- Del Mar (From the Sea)
- Desayunos
- Sabado Y Domingo
- Sides
- Menu Para Ninos (Kids Menu)
- Bebidas (Beverages)
- Milk Shakes
- Postres (Desserts)
- Cocktails made with real fruit & handcrafted syrups
- Large Selection of Tequilas
- and much more

Address and phone:

810 N. New Ballas Road
Creve Coeur, Missouri 63141
Phone: +1 314-763-1651





NOTE: The information contained within the post is subject to change without notice.  Contact the restaurant to verify critical information.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/new-mexican-restaurant-tradicional-314-to-offer-online-ordering/

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Focus Brands Sold Record-Breaking Number of Franchises Across Family of Brands in 2021
Leading Developer of Global Foodservice Brands Sold 561 Franchises and Opened More than 175 Units in the U.S. and Canada in 2021
ATLANTA,  GA (StLouisRestaurantReview) Focus Brands, the parent company of iconic brands Auntie Anne's®, Carvel®, Cinnabon®, Jamba®, McAlister's Deli®, Moe's Southwest Grill®, and Schlotzsky's®, announced today that it sold a record-breaking 561 franchises and opened more than 175 units in the United States and Canada in 2021.  Focus Brands' rapid growth reinforces the strength and viability of each brand within the company's portfolio and proves its commitment to innovation.

"It was a historic year at Focus Brands, and I am proud that, despite the immense challenges of the past two years, our brand franchisees continue to see the value in our iconic brands and are committed to helping us grow across the globe," said Jim Holthouser, Chief Executive Officer of Focus Brands.  "Each of our brands has adjusted well to meet the evolving expectations of the guest, and strategic modifications and digital-forward solutions have helped us maintain a strong position in each respective category.  As we begin 2022, we remain focused on targeted expansion in new and existing markets and are always looking for the right opportunities to help our seven brands excel."

To help its brands grow, Focus Brands and its franchise companies have prioritized meeting the ever-evolving demands of today's consumers.  Key initiatives include leveraging technology and digital innovation to increase customer accessibility and introducing new and modernized prototypes to promote convenience and support the industry-wide shift to off-premise dining.  Focus Brands has also looked for opportunities to accelerate its co-branding franchise development efforts.  To that end, in 2021, Jamba and Auntie Anne's opened a co-branded location in Wylie, Texas, featuring the first-ever Auntie Anne's drive-thru and subsequently sold 33 franchises for additional Jamba and Auntie Anne's co-brand locations across the country.  Auntie Anne's and Cinnabon recently signed a deal to bring ten co-branded stores to New York City.  McAlister's Deli also announced this year that they are on track to be a billion-dollar brand by 2024, a first for one of Focus Brands' restaurant concepts.

Non-traditional restaurant expansion also played a major role in Focus Brands' growth in 2021.  Deals were signed to open future locations in convenience stores, airports, amusement parks, colleges and universities, ghost kitchens, and more.  Today, across the entire family of brands, there are 972 non-traditional units open throughout the U.S., with an additional 270 units in the pipeline.  This includes the recent opening of Jamba's second robotic kiosk pilot, Jamba by Blendid, with more locations in the pipeline.

In addition to the franchises sold in the U.S. and Canada, Focus Brands International sold more than 225 commitments for international expansion and opened more than 215 stores in 2021.  In particular, Cinnabon saw impressive growth with key milestones in the Middle East, including the opening of the first-ever Cinnabon drive-thru in the region, located just outside of Cairo, Egypt.  The brand also signed a deal with the Innovative Union Company to bring 130 new Cinnabon bakeries to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the next five years.
About Focus Brands
Atlanta-based Focus Brands is a leading developer of global multi-channel foodservice brands.  Focus Brands, through its affiliate brands, is the franchisor and operator of more than 6,000 restaurants, cafes, ice cream shops, and bakeries in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and over 50 foreign countries under the brand names Auntie Anne's, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba, Moe's Southwest Grill, McAlister's Deli and Schlotzsky's, as well as Seattle's Best Coffee on certain military bases and in certain international markets.
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/focus-brands-sold-record-breaking-number-of-franchises/

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

City FOUNDRY STL offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring 22 restaurants in a single Midtown historical location.
ST LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) City FOUNDRY STL (Public Market) is open now for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, housing 22 restaurants in a single location, creating a destination that is a newly renovated historical site making it St. Louis' first food hall.  It offers a large variety of restaurants, cuisines, bars, and more, making entertainment an easy solution with convenience and beautiful historical significance, blessing the visitors with a unique atmosphere not available anyplace else in St. Louis.
City FOUNDRY STL offers:

- 107,000 square feet of creative office space
- 122,000 square feet of food hall & restaurant space
- 105,000 square feet of retail shops
- Phase two to begin soon

City FOUNDRY STL is located in the Midtown area of St. Louis, featuring 864 acres, a population of 5,652, 60+ arts & cultural organizations, 18+ bars and restaurants, and more than 15,003 college students.

We love the idea of modernizing historical facilities and renovating them into something that represents history, not destroying it, making it a memory.  We will continue to revise this content as we learn more about this unique entertainment destination.  The investor (s) have risked hundreds of millions of dollars on this project and deserve recognition.  Still, more importantly, the establishment deserves to be made part of the community and history of the city.

Several articles have been written about the project, mainly discussing the restaurants.  We are more excited and impressed with the historical significance made, which will make the restaurants popular if the destination becomes a popular destination.  If the destination fails, the restaurants fail.  Naturally, the restaurants will come and go as time passes, but the facility deserves to survive.  The facility opened during the pandemic, making it the most challenging time for anything involving restaurants or entertainment.

We will be researching each restaurant and publishing a directory listing for each, and publishing information about their online reviews, as well as our perspective.  Additionally, we will create a picture gallery and video to help introduce the destination and historical significance to the community.
The restaurants located at the City FOUNDRY STL now are as follows:

- 18Rails
- Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
- Buenos Aires Cafe
- Bullhorn
- Chez Ali
- Chicken Scratch Rotisserie
- Fassler Hall
- Fresh Thyme Market
- Good Day
- Great Rivers Greenway
- Hello Poke
- Kalbi Taco Shack
- Kitchen Bar
- Orion Genomics
- Patty's Cheesecakes
- Poptimism STL
- Press Waffle Co.
- Subdivision Sandwich Co.
- Sur Este
- Turmeric Street Style
- VibeSZN

Previous articles published about City FOUNDRY STL:

- See what City Foundry's Phase 2 will look like as construction begins - 5 On Your Side TV - December 23, 2021
- Meet the delicious and diverse vendors of St. Louis' new food hall, City Foundry - November 9, 2021
- What do you need to know about the new City Foundry STL Food Hall?  We asked insiders - August 25, 2021
- City Foundry STL's Food Hall is Now Open w Photos - River Front Times - August 12, 2021
- City Foundry STL food hall Opens Wednesday - 5 On Your Side TV - August 9, 2021 - VIDEO
- First Look: The Food Hall at City Foundry STL - August 11, 2021

City FOUNDRY STL business hours:

- Sunday and Monday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Tuesday: CLOSED
- Wednesday and Thursday: 9 am to 8 pm
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 9 pm

City FOUNDRY STL is located at:
3730 Foundry Way
Saint Louis, Missouri 63108

YouTube description: City Foundry STL is the adaptive reuse of the former 15-acre Century Electric Foundry complex in St. Louis.  The iconic and historically significant foundry building will be transformed into a dynamic hub of innovation complete with St. Louis’ first true food hall, a curated retail & entertainment experience, and creative offices infused with historic industrial architecture.

Proudly located in St. Louis’ growing Midtown neighborhood, City Foundry STL is a place to experience and get inspired.



Video provided on City FOUNDRY STL YouTube channel.


https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/st-louis-first-food-hall-city-foundry-stl/
St. Louis Restaurant Review publishes the Top-10 Restaurants in Wentzville, Missouri.
WENTZVILLE, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) We have listed our Top-10 Restaurants in Wentzville, Missouri.  As always, our list is created by online customer reviews.  The restaurants recognized on this list are not paid or sponsored in any manner.

Wentzville is located in the west region of St. Charles County, with a population of 44,372, ranking as the 15th largest city in Missouri.  The town was outlined in 1855, and the post office has operated since 1859.  The largest employer is General Motors employing more than 3,300, creating a robust and vibrant community.

Typically, the best-rated restaurants are locally owned, but this list recognizes several chain restaurants, which surprised us.

- West Allen Grill - 9 W Allen Street, Wentzville, MO 63385-1401 - Phone +1 636-327-3030
- Stefanina's Pizzeria - 762 West Pearce Blvd, Wentzville, MO 63385-1016 - Phone: +1 636-327-5800
- The Tattooed Dog - 11 Wentzville Bluffs Drive #109, Wentzville, MO 63385 - Phone: +1 636-887-2178
- 54th Street Grill & Bar - 1897 Wentzville Pkwy, Wentzville, MO 63385 - Phone: +1 636-327-5454
- Bandanas BBQ - Wentzville - 1 Ruggeri Drive, Wentzville, MO 63385-1008 - Phone: +1 636-887-4050
- Sunny Street Cafe - 1814 Wentzville Pkwy, Wentzville, MO 63385-3817 - Phone: +1 636-639-7473
- Stone Summit Steak & Seafood - 17 Cliff View Drive Wentzville Bluffs, Wentzville, MO 63385-4504 - Phone: +1 636-856-9260
- Friendship Brewing Company - 100 East Pitman Avenue, Wentzville, MO 63385-1700 - Phone: +1 636-856-9300
- Los Portales Mexican Restaurant - 503 West Pearce Blvd, Wentzville, MO 63385-1342 - Phone: +1 636-639-1522
- Olive Garden Italian Restaurant - 1280 West Pearce Blvd, Wentzville, MO 63385 - Phone: +1 636-332-2250

Special Mentions:

- Wentzville Family Diner - 403 Luetkenhaus Blvd, Wentzville, MO 63385-1211 - Phone: +1 636-887-2870
- The Grotto Grill - 5074 Highway P, Wentzville, MO 63385-2118 - Phone: +1 636-327-9656
- Old Town Smokehouse - 2 E Main St, Wentzville, MO 63385-1735 - Phone: +1 636-856-0193
- Thai Kitchen - 2 West Pearce Blvd, Wentzville, MO 63385 - Phone: +1 636-856-0775
https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/best-restaurants-top-10-restaurants-in-wentzville-mo/