RAMMY Nominees, They’re Just Like Us (Final Edition): Restaurateur of the Year

We are at the end of our “Rammy Nominees They’re Just Like Us” series. Since the Rammy nominee announcement we here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com  have featured the nominees from an array of categories in our annual section. And, here we are with the very last group because … The RAMMY AWARDS are coming up July 9th… be there or be square. This week we talk to the big guns, the nominees for Restaurateur of The Year and asked them: 

Given everything the industry has been through in the last few years, more and more restaurants continue to open in the DC market. What insight can you share from your experience with those who are just getting started?

Gavin Coleman
Partner at Long Shot Hospitality
First and foremost, take care of the amazing people who work in your restaurant. There are so many great operators in the DMV and great staff is still hard to find. That being said, don’t do it alone— I am lucky enough to have four incredibly talented partners who make navigating every aspect of our industry and market a lot easier.

Gregory Casten
President of Fish and Fire Food Group
Be patient, believe in your product and choose your location wisely. People see the meal as more than just the food, it’s ambiance, it’s the people serving, it’s the spirit of the occasion and the fit of the space, and, most importantly, it is how all those things converge at the exact moment the patron enters your place.

Fatima Popal
Partner in The Popal Group
Create a concept that is versatile and has the ability to pivot. Don't be afraid of moving away from an original plan.

Rose Previte
Founder, No White Plates: Compass Rose, Maydan, and Kirby Club
Any advice I would give would be to remember what a tight knit food and beverage city DC really is. Many of us came up in the restaurant industry in a very different DC and we need to keep the good things of the past while not shying away from some of the new and exciting things coming our way now and in the future. It’s been really exciting to be part of this community and I’m so proud of DC!

Andrew Dana
Co-owner at Call Your Mother
People are the most important ingredient. Treat your team right, do meaningful things in your community, maintain good relationships with all of your partners and purveyors. It takes a village, and you have to make sure the vibes are on point in your village!’'