On Dining Out: September 2008

Restaurants Rise Above Tough Times

Restaurant Success StoriesIn an age where once-booming chain restaurants are now facing the possibility of cutbacks and bankruptcy, some independently owned restaurants are showing record growth. What's their secret to success?

We've spoken to restaurant owners all around the country, and five key principles came up again and again when we asked them what they attribute their success to: quality, service, experience, simplicity and value.

Restaurants Rise Above Tough Times: Part 2

Quality: An In-Depth Look at Culinary Excellence

Read the profiles of four restaurants whose proprietors believe that their commitment to top quality ingredients and cutting edge cuisine is responsible for their continued success.

Restaurants Rise Above Tough Times: Part 3

Service: An In-Depth Look at Customer Care

Three restaurant owners share their secrets as to how they implement the very best customer service practices and how they feel that extra effort to connect with their patrons has paid off.

Restaurants Rise Above Tough Times: Part 4

Experience: An In-Depth Look at Memorable Dining

Read about three restaurants whose owners believe that atmosphere and entertainment, combined with a great meal, make for the sort of memorable dining experience that keeps patrons flowing through their doors.

Restaurants Rise Above Tough Times: Part 5

Simplicity: An In-Depth Look at the Basics

Read about three restaurateurs who feel that keeping their menus simple without compromising quality of service or ingredients has helped them grow and profit.

Restaurants Rise Above Tough Times: Part 6

Value: An In-Depth Look at Affordability

The success of these three restaurants lies in their ability to provide their patrons with meals of exceptional quality at reasonable prices by trimming their operating costs in ways that don't effect the menu.