Atlanta’s Restaurant Scene: Why Some Chains Are Thriving Amid Closures
Atlanta is buzzing with its dynamic food scene, and despite the rollercoaster ride of rising costs and prominent closures, certain restaurant chains are flourishing while others falter. As we dive into this interesting climate, you may be surprised to discover why some eateries like Rreal Tacos, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, and Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks are not only surviving but also expanding.
The Challenge of Atlanta’s Restaurant Industry
Like many urban centers, Atlanta’s restaurant landscape is constantly evolving and, at times, quite volatile. Recent reports indicate that retail rent has jumped by as much as 9 percent, while wholesale ingredient costs have risen by 5.4 percent over the past year. On top of that, labor shortages are digging into profits, leading to the shuttering of notable venues like Todd Ginsberg’s The General Muir and Damsel. August, in particular, was labeled as a “brutal month for restaurant closures.”
But it’s not all doom and gloom! As big players throw in the towel, smaller, local chains are popping up like mushrooms after rain, with exciting expansions setting the stage for their success.
What’s Cooking for the Flourishing Chains?
Take Savi Provisions, for example. This local market chain has achieved a stunning expansion, boasting over 17 locations. Similarly, Rreal Tacos has opened a new spot “almost every 120 days” since July 2022! Notably, NaanStop aims to double its locations, projecting a total of seven in the upcoming year alone! The excitement doesn’t stop there—Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks is looking to spread beyond metro Atlanta, potentially adding to Atlanta’s list of powerful restaurant chains.
The Secret Ingredient: Location and Community
So, what’s the magic ingredient for these thriving restaurants? Many experts agree that location is everything. Take the Yeremyans of HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern, who invested in professional market studies before finding the prime spots for their locations. Understanding the local demographic and competition played a significant role in their success.
On the other side, some brands may not have the funds for such extensive research, but they often find success by being deeply rooted in the city. “Atlanta has a track record of supporting its own,” says Jonathan Fox of Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q. Being proactively engaged allows local businesses to understand what neighborhoods need, which is integral to Rreal Tacos’ rapid growth.
Finding a Niche: Listening to the Locals
For some Atlanta residents-turned-entrepreneurs, it’s been a matter of gut decisions. Take St. Germain French Café & Bakery, which opened in Ponce City Market back in 2016. Their instinct pays off, leading to further successful locations in vibrant communities like Buckhead Village.
Another success story is Honeysuckle Gelato, which began as a food truck. Founders engaged customers to gather knowledge on flavor preferences and location needs, resulting in a spread that now covers both Georgia and North Carolina.
American Deli is also riding the success wave, noting that they listen keenly to customers’ location suggestions on social media, ensuring they meet the demands of budget-conscious diners who crave diverse flavors.
Creating a Welcoming Environment
Looking at the types of restaurants thriving today, it’s clear there’s been a shift from traditional dining to fast casual experiences. Younger generations are more inclined to savor creative local eats instead of falling back on big national chains. As Daniel Halpert from Jackmont Hospitality puts it, “this younger crowd prefers supporting mini-chains.”
This evolving landscape has brought Atlanta’s culinary scene to new heights, paving the way for restaurants to venture beyond the familiar. NaanStop founders attribute their success partly to this generation’s openness to trying new flavors, as seen in their exponential growth within the Indian food market.
The Key Takeaway
As local chains continue to thrive amid challenges, one takeaway is clear: community connection is essential for any new or growing venture. Business owners prioritize understanding local tastes and needs, ensuring they serve up satisfying experiences. “Atlanta won’t give you a pass if you don’t understand the city and what the people want,” says Miguel Hernandez from Rreal Tacos, echoing the sentiment of many local restaurateurs.
In a city rich with culinary potential, it’s evident that attracting food-loving Atlantans comes down to a mix of great flavors, affordable prices, and genuine community engagement. With a city full of foodies, the secret recipe for success is simply being in tune with the pulse of the community.
