The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be here before we know it, and Atlanta will once again be in the spotlight for a huge international sporting event. I was General Manager of Atlanta Fish Market in the heart of Buckhead in 1996 as Atlanta hosted the Olympic Games, so I realize what an impact this event will have on the city. Atlanta has hosted many big events over the years, and we … [Read more...] about Atlanta’s Suburbs are Ready to Show Off for World Cup Visitors
Management
FIFA World Cup Brings Excitement, Adaptation to Local Restaurant Operations
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is only two months away, and Atlanta restaurateurs and hoteliers are preparing in numerous ways for how the event will affect their businesses. From downtown to Decatur, from Buckhead to the Beltline, everyone is bracing for maximum impact. “We expect to be packed all day and night,” says Eric Davis, General Manager of Eclipse di Luna in Inman Park’s … [Read more...] about FIFA World Cup Brings Excitement, Adaptation to Local Restaurant Operations
Atlanta Will Be on Display for FIFA World Cup
This summer, Atlanta welcomes the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of several U.S. host cities. We’ll see a total of eight matches from June 15 through to a semi-final game on July 15. There’s no doubt that the World Cup is a big deal, but as a non-soccer fan, I struggled to understand just how massive the World Cup is. Here’s a quick exercise that helped me put the magnitude of this … [Read more...] about Atlanta Will Be on Display for FIFA World Cup
The End of the Free Bread Basket
For decades, complimentary bread baskets, chips and salsa and other precursor bites were an expected part of the restaurant dining experience, particularly in full-service and casual dining spots across Georgia and the Southeast. They were symbols of hospitality and abundance, meant to welcome guests and set the tone for the meal ahead. But across the country, those once “free” … [Read more...] about The End of the Free Bread Basket
How AI Is Transforming Restaurant Operations
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer the tool of national chains with large IT budgets. Today, AI tools are accessible to independent restaurants, regional operators and multi-unit hospitality groups. AI can reduce administrative workload, improve the guest experience and unlock better decision-making across nearly every function of a restaurant. As is always the case with … [Read more...] about How AI Is Transforming Restaurant Operations
Making Merch Matter: Should Your Restaurant Offer Branded Merchandise?
The restaurant industry is notorious for slim profit margins. One idea for increasing revenue is by selling branded merchandise. These days it’s hard to find a restaurant or bar that isn’t selling something besides food and drinks, but does it make sense for every owner/operator? Consider the benefits. Merchandise not only provides brand exposure—it can be a low-cost way to … [Read more...] about Making Merch Matter: Should Your Restaurant Offer Branded Merchandise?
From Back of House to Center Stage—How to Promote Your Restaurant Through TV Appearances
With the rise of celebrity chef culture, many kitchen talents have made the move from back-of-house to center stage. Cooking demos on the morning news, talk show segments and televised community events can all offer a route to household name recognition. But how do you begin? And how do you make sure you nail it when you get the opportunity? Get Involved with Your … [Read more...] about From Back of House to Center Stage—How to Promote Your Restaurant Through TV Appearances
Finding the Balance Between Dining and Activity at “Eatertainment” Venues
The concept of “eatertainment” isn’t new, especially for today’s adult generation. Even before Dave & Buster’s, there were McDonald’s PlayPlaces and Chuck E. Cheese, venues that combine dining with entertainment or activities. There isn’t a date night more classic than dinner and a movie, nor one as wholesome as a light bite followed by mini golf. Food and activities … [Read more...] about Finding the Balance Between Dining and Activity at “Eatertainment” Venues
