{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/65de4a3b5568ae0016275285/68f84c5b5d128a844c95e353?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"The Casual Comeback | Barry McGowan, Kaleb Harrell, Christine Magrann, Jeff Chandler","description":"<p>Is casual dining just surviving or thriving? In this dynamic roundtable from The Depot in Salt Lake City, Barry McGowan (Fogo de Chao) leads a conversation with Kaleb Harrell (Hawkers), Christine Magrann (FB Society), and Jeff Chandler (Hopdoddy) to explore why many believe casual dining is in the midst of a renaissance.</p><p><br></p><p>Together, they unpack how operators are innovating without losing hospitality’s soul, why experiential dining is driving growth, and how culture remains the foundation for sustainable expansion. From pricing strategies and tech adoption to guest connection and brand integrity, this panel delivers actionable insights for restaurateurs, founders, and foodservice investors alike.</p><p><br></p><p>⏱️ Chapters</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 | Intro: The Casual Dining Renaissance</p><p>03:01 | Hawkers: Origin Story &amp; Why Casual Lasts</p><p>07:01 | Guests Want Approachable Excellence</p><p>10:45 | Hospitality Is Human Connection</p><p>15:11 | Scaling Culture Without Losing the Soul</p><p>18:45 | Balancing Tech with Leadership Intuition</p><p>21:28 | Owning and Nourishing Company Culture</p><p>26:00 | Innovation Done Thoughtfully</p><p>27:34 | Guests Crave Experiences &amp; Shared Moments</p><p>29:23 | Experimenting with Craveable Value</p><p>32:15 | Team Input &amp; Operational Reality Checks</p><p>34:05 | Pricing Strategy: Art Meets Science</p><p>39:33 | The Promise &amp; Pitfall of Technology</p><p>42:52 | Final Thoughts &amp; Mic Drop Moments</p>","author_name":"Andrew Smith"}