January 22, 2015
Pistola a Substantial Addition to L.A. Dining Scene
Opened last fall by Seth Glassman and chef Vic Casanova, whose Gusto earned Esquire's best new restaurant honors in 2012, Pistola is a modern Italian steakhouse in the heart of Los Angeles’ West Third Street.
Restaurant Development Report
A handful of restaurant chains have announced plans to enter new geographies, including First Watch and Habit Burger Grill. In addition, a Dunkin’ Donuts deal will accelerate its international growth and much more.
Q&A With: John Ferdinandi, CEO, Milano Restaurants/Blast 825° Pizza
Milano Restaurants International, which operates the Me-n-Ed’s Pizza Parlor, Victory Grill and Coney Island Grill concepts, entered the fast-casual pizza fray in 2013 with Blast 825° Pizza. The company celebrated the opening of its fourth unit in December, in the Sacramento, Calif., market and in mid-January secured $9.6 million in financing from GE Capital to help it continue to grow. CEO John Ferdinandi says franchising is in the cards.
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The Taylor® Company grill line
Revolutionary two-sided grilling cooks a frozen patty 66% faster than traditional flat grills. With programmable cook times, pre-set temperatures and consistent product pressure, you can cook a variety of menu items throughout the day. To learn more, click here.  |
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Fatburger, Buffalo’s Express Open Co-Branded Unit
In mid-January, better-burger fast-casual concept Fatburger and its sister brand, Buffalo’s Express, opened a new co-branded location in Barstow, Calif. The 3,800-square-foot location offers guests access to specialties from both concepts in a single platform.
Restaurant Development Professionals on the Move
Companies announcing personnel moves include Fiesta Restaurant Group, Foldcraft Co., Nemo Tile and Sage Restaurant Group.
They’ve Got Game
When the retro-themed Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club opened last spring in Brooklyn, N.Y., it won over hipsters with regulation-sized courts, craft beer, trendy cocktails and food-truck dining. On another front, the bowling industry is undergoing an evolution, as smaller alleys close, giving way to larger, multi-entertainment venues. And bocce, once the province of elders from the old country, is gaining new cache at Millennials’ haunts. |
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