Latest News on Virtual Restaurant Consulting and Industry Trends

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

Sustainability is no longer just a trend in the restaurant industry—it’s an essential business strategy. With rising food costs, increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly dining, and a greater focus on waste reduction, restaurants that implement sustainable practices can improve efficiency, reduce expenses, and enhance their reputation.At The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, we help restaurants in Houston, Dallas, and nationwide develop sustainability strategies that not only benefit the environment but also drive long-term profitability. Below, we outline practical ways restaurants can cut costs and reduce waste while maintaining quality and efficiency.Why Sustainability Matters for RestaurantsSustainability isn’t just about environmental responsibility—it also provides tangible financial and ... Read More

Opening a restaurant is an exciting journey, but it requires more than just a passion for food. From developing a unique concept to creating a strong brand and launching with impact, a successful restaurant startup requires careful planning, strategic decision-making, and seamless execution.At The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, we help restaurateurs in Dallas, Houston, and nationwide navigate the challenges of launching a new restaurant. Whether you’re opening your first location or expanding an existing brand, this step-by-step guide will help you set the foundation for long-term success.Step 1: Define Your Concept & Business PlanBefore securing a location or building a menu, your restaurant needs a clear ... Read More

The Dallas dining scene continues to evolve, offering both exciting opportunities and intense competition for restaurant operators. With a growing population, an influx of new restaurant concepts, and shifting consumer preferences, staying ahead in 2025 requires a keen understanding of market trends, customer expectations, and smart business strategies.At The Gilkey Restaurant Consulting Group, we help restaurants in Dallas and nationwide navigate the challenges of the industry with data-driven strategies for growth. Below, we explore the key insights that will shape restaurant success in Dallas in 2025 and how operators can thrive in this competitive market.Dallas Dining Trends for 2025Dallas has long been known for ... Read More