There is no question that Korean pop culture has had a rising influence on U.S. consumers. From boy bands like K-pop sensation BTS, to television series, including Netflix’s “Squid Game,” Korean media has recently captured the mainstream American imagination and helped supercharge the popularity of Korean cuisine in the current restaurant industry. By Tamara Rahoumi
Matt Warren, owner and operator of Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe in Cincinnati, has spent over a decade in the restaurant industry and continues to contribute to the success of high-quality handcrafted cuisine. Warren explained the explosive growth he has experienced with the brand. By Heidi Lubrani
An innovative eatery that serves globally inspired street food with the freshest ingredients, strEATS has been a staple in 15 communities across Canada since 2017. Known for its delicious dishes, like the tandoori naan taco, chicken waffle poutine and tropical shrimp bowl, the brand has also been making an impact in the communities it serves. By Brianna Bohn
While over 20 years of management experience, including working in the restaurant industry as a teenager and owning a full-service 150-seat restaurant, has helped Geoff Garrity grow his Sarasota, Florida, Island Fin Poké location, there is one significant element that has acted as a driving force behind all his decisions: passion. By Brianna Bohn
For Terry Bishop, who operates three Rachel’s Kitchen locations with the help of his children, the best part about family ownership is the financial security. By Jessica Jones