Latest News on Virtual Restaurant Consulting and Industry Trends

Opening a restaurant in Chicago is an exciting ambition, but it’s also one of the most demanding startup paths in the hospitality world. With a competitive dining scene, strict regulations, and high expectations from guests, success depends on preparation—not luck. This guide is designed to walk aspiring owners through a practical, step-by-step restaurant startup Chicago process that balances creativity with operational discipline.From concept development and location strategy to menu design, restaurant branding, staffing, and opening execution, this resource is meant to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.Start With a Chicago-Smart Restaurant ConceptA restaurant concept should act as a ... Read More

For many restaurant groups, 2026 represents a turning point. Strong single-unit performance, brand traction, and market opportunity are driving interest in multi-unit restaurant growth. However, expansion without preparation is one of the fastest ways to erode profitability, culture, and quality.Scaling successfully requires more than opening another location. It demands systems, structure, and discipline built well before growth begins. This roadmap outlines how restaurant groups can prepare for expansion in 2026 while protecting margins, brand consistency, and operational control. The focus is on practical restaurant expansion strategy rooted in proven consulting principles, not speculative growth models.Why Expansion Fails More Often Than ... Read More

As 2025 comes to a close, restaurants across the country face a critical decision point. Year-end is more than a calendar milestone. It is the most important opportunity to assess performance, identify risk, and reset strategy before heading into 2026. Restaurants that skip this process often carry unresolved issues into the new year, while those that complete a thorough year-end restaurant audit gain clarity, control, and momentum.This step-by-step guide outlines the financial and operational performance metrics every restaurant should measure before the year ends. Grounded in proven consulting methodology, this restaurant audit checklist focuses on core areas that directly impact ... Read More

Winter presents a unique challenge for restaurants in colder markets. Shorter days, harsh weather, and shifting consumer habits all influence when, why, and how guests choose to dine out. In early 2026, successful operators are no longer treating winter as a season to simply endure. Instead, they are designing intentional cold-weather concepts that transform comfort into conversion.This blog explores how top-performing restaurants use ambiance, service, and operational strategy to create cozy guest experiences that drive winter sales. Drawing on nationwide consulting insights, this winter restaurant strategy focuses on practical, guest-centric approaches that turn atmosphere into measurable revenue.Why Guest Experience Matters ... Read More

As the restaurant industry moves into early 2026, winter is no longer viewed as a passive or slower season. Across the country, operators are using the colder months to refine strategy, test new ideas, and strengthen the foundation of their businesses. Economic pressure, evolving guest expectations, and rapid innovation are reshaping how restaurants approach menus, staffing, design, and technology during winter.This nationwide restaurant forecast explores the most important winter restaurant trends for 2026, with practical insights that owners, operators, and leadership teams can apply immediately. Drawing on real-world consulting experience, this outlook reflects what is emerging across independent restaurants, regional ... Read More

 Many restaurants offer gift cards as an add-on purchase, but are these pocket-sized gifts actually beneficial for the business? The short answer is yes. Restaurant gift cards are one of the most effective revenue and marketing tools available to operators today. When implemented strategically, gift card programs can increase brand awareness, attract new customers, improve cash flow, and raise average order value. For restaurants focused on sustainable growth, gift cards represent a practical and proven solution.According to the National Restaurant Association, gift cards consistently rank among the most popular consumer gift options, particularly during holidays and special occasions. From the ... Read More

In Denver’s thriving restaurant market, reputation can make or break a concept faster than almost any other factor. With diners relying heavily on platforms like Google, Yelp, and OpenTable to make dining decisions, a few negative reviews can ripple into declining reservations and reduced walk-ins. For operators, this can feel like a death sentence, but it doesn’t have to be. Repairing a damaged reputation does not always require rebranding or abandoning your restaurant’s identity. Instead, targeted strategies in restaurant reputation management allow Denver restaurants to rebuild trust, improve ratings, and strengthen loyalty—without losing what makes them unique.Why Reputation Matters So ... Read More

In the competitive landscape of hospitality, staffing is not just about filling vacancies—it's about aligning people with purpose. The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group recognizes this truth and is committed to delivering high-quality recruitment services tailored to the needs of the restaurant and hospitality industry. Whether you're a national brand or an ambitious independent operator, we specialize in sourcing, vetting, and placing exceptional talent who drive revenue, elevate service standards, and foster brand loyalty.With deep industry insight and an expansive network of candidates, The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group is trusted by operators across the United States for its unparalleled ability to find and ... Read More

Portland’s restaurant culture is one of the most vibrant in the country, attracting chefs, entrepreneurs, and investors eager to bring new dining concepts to life. But for first-time operators, navigating the city’s complex permitting and regulatory environment often proves more challenging than developing a menu or designing a space. Licensing, inspections, and unexpected delays can derail opening timelines and drain budgets if not handled with care. For entrepreneurs preparing to launch, working with a restaurant consultant in Portland can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure compliance with Oregon’s regulatory framework.The Importance of Permits in Portland’s Restaurant MarketOpening a restaurant in Portland ... Read More