Latest News on Virtual Restaurant Consulting and Industry Trends

Summer presents a significant opportunity for restaurants to capture increased traffic, introduce fresh ingredients, and maximize revenue. Whether you're operating a fast-casual concept, an upscale dining room, or a multi-unit franchise, refining your menu to align with seasonal demand is one of the most strategic and data-driven decisions you can make. A well-optimized summer menu not only elevates guest satisfaction but also drives profitability by aligning product offerings with cost control, consumer preferences, and operational efficiencies.At The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, we specialize in helping restaurateurs develop menus that balance creativity, consistency, and financial viability. Below are our expert strategies for ... Read More

Running a successful single-unit restaurant is a challenge in itself, but replicating that success across multiple locations demands a more complex and disciplined approach. Standardization is at the heart of scalable restaurant growth. It ensures that every customer, whether dining in the flagship location or the newest franchise, receives the same quality of service, food, and experience.In today’s competitive and review-driven foodservice landscape, inconsistent operations can rapidly damage a brand’s reputation. For multi-unit operators, the key to sustaining success lies in well-documented systems, thorough training, and routine operational audits. With guidance from an experienced restaurant consultant, like those at The Gilkey ... Read More

Opening a restaurant is a dream for many, but turning that dream into a successful business requires more than a good recipe or a trendy concept. It demands strategic planning, compliance with regulations, financial foresight, and an intimate understanding of the food and beverage industry. For aspiring restaurant owners aiming to launch this summer, the timeline is tight, but with expert guidance, success is within reach. The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, known for its comprehensive approach to restaurant startup consulting, outlines the 10 critical steps you must follow to ensure your venture is both viable and vibrant.Concept Development and Market ResearchEvery ... Read More

Summer is one of the busiest and most profitable seasons for restaurants. With warmer weather, increased tourism, and a shift in dining preferences, restaurants that prepare properly can see a significant boost in revenue. However, maximizing summer sales requires strategic planning, menu adjustments, targeted promotions, and a well-prepared staff to handle the seasonal surge.At The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, we help restaurants nationwide optimize their operations, enhance marketing efforts, and create a summer strategy that drives revenue and customer engagement. Below, we outline the key steps to ensure your restaurant is set up for a successful and profitable summer.Why Summer Is a Prime Opportunity for ... Read More

Las Vegas is synonymous with ambition, spectacle, and relentless energy. It’s a city where fortunes are made—and lost—in the blink of an eye. The same is true for its restaurant industry. With one of the most competitive dining landscapes in the country, Las Vegas is not just a place to open a restaurant. It’s a place to prove your concept has what it takes to thrive.Every year, hundreds of food ventures launch across the city, from the Strip to Summerlin. Most don’t fail because the food is bad. They fail because the restaurant startup lacked systems, strategy, or the adaptability to ... Read More

Attracting new customers is important for any restaurant, but long-term success depends on repeat business. Loyal customers not only return frequently but also spend more, leave positive reviews, and refer others to your restaurant. In fact, studies show that repeat guests can generate significantly higher revenue than first-time visitors, making customer retention one of the most valuable business strategies for restaurants.In a competitive market like Boulder, CO, and across the country, restaurants must do more than serve great food to keep customers coming back. Exceptional service, personalized experiences, and ongoing engagement through marketing and loyalty programs all contribute to building long-term guest relationships.At The Gilkey ... Read More

Amarillo may be best known for its big steaks, Route 66 legends, and boot-stomping Texas heritage, but the city’s culinary identity is rapidly evolving. As the Texas Panhandle becomes more connected and consumer-savvy, diners are demanding more than the classics. They want intentional menus, memorable atmospheres, and food experiences that reflect both local character and global inspiration.For restaurant owners and operators, this is a window of incredible opportunity. Amarillo’s food scene is growing—but not yet saturated. Unlike the over-competitive landscapes of Austin, Dallas, or Houston, Amarillo offers fertile ground for the right concept at the right time.A MARKET IN TRANSITIONAmarillo ... Read More

Securing investment for a restaurant is one of the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs looking to launch or expand their business. Investors are highly selective, and with the competitive nature of the restaurant industry, standing out requires a solid business model, strong financials, and a clear growth strategy.At The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, we help restaurant owners in Dallas, Houston, and nationwide refine their business plans, develop compelling investment pitches, and connect with potential funding sources. If you're looking to attract investors, here’s what you need to know.What Makes a Restaurant Attractive to Investors?Investors seek opportunities that minimize risk while maximizing profitability. A restaurant ... Read More

Albuquerque is no longer a quiet culinary outpost known solely for its red and green chile. It’s becoming one of the Southwest’s most promising markets for restaurant innovation. A new generation of chefs and food entrepreneurs is transforming this city’s food scene with bold concepts, thoughtful menu design, and a focus on both cultural roots and global trends.For restaurant startups and seasoned operators alike, Albuquerque offers the rare combination of opportunity, affordability, and community engagement. From vibrant food truck culture to polished fine dining, the demand for memorable dining experiences is on the rise. And with the right strategy, now ... Read More