Joe Guszkowski

Local Kitchens raises $40M to open more high-tech food halls

The 12-unit multi-brand restaurant chain plans to expand into Southern California with its enlightened take on the ghost kitchen model.

Operations

Hooters closes some struggling restaurants, citing a difficult market

The sports bar chain abruptly shut its doors in parts of Texas, Florida, Kentucky and Virginia. A local media outlet put the total number of closures at 40.

Technology

NYC bill would allow third-party delivery commissions of up to 43%

Delivery apps said the expanded fees would allow restaurants to opt in to additional marketing services. A restaurant group called it a “pay to play” scheme.

Technology

Customer feedback startup Ovation raises $2M

The company will use the funding to develop new features for its tech, which is based around two-question diner surveys.

Technology

American Express is acquiring Tock from Squarespace for $400M

The deal solidifies Amex as a major player in restaurant reservations and will unlock more perks for cardholders.

Leadership

LongHorn Steakhouse promotes Laura Williamson to president

The former head of finance replaces Todd Burrowes, who is now president of business development for parent Darden Restaurants. It was part of a flurry of leadership changes at the company.

Operations

Lower-income consumers remain a problem for Olive Garden

The Italian restaurant chain said it’s keeping prices low and doing more to promote value, including its bottomless breadsticks. But it refuses to jump on the discounting bandwagon to drive traffic.

Technology