Midwest Momentum
Stories from the Midwest Start-Up community.
Midwest Momentum
Exploring Ohio's Restaurant Boom and Hospitality Innovations
What's fueling Ohio's restaurant and hospitality resurgence? Join us as we uncover the dynamic trends shaping Ohio's food scene with John Barker, president, and CEO of the Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance. Learn how post-pandemic restaurant openings are flourishing, the innovative rise of ghost kitchens, and why chicken-focused eateries are gaining traction. John reveals how inflation is steering consumer habits and the creative strategies restaurants are adopting to manage costs, including the shift towards smaller formats. We also pay homage to beloved mom-and-pop establishments and the unique hurdles they encounter in bustling urban settings.
Ohio's tourism and hospitality industry is more vibrant than ever, and we're putting the spotlight on the culinary hotspots of Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. Discover how major events are driving economic growth and why microbreweries and trendy drinks like seltzers and infused teas are becoming local favorites. We emphasize the critical support from state hospitality associations, ensuring that Ohio holds its place as a top destination for food enthusiasts.
In our advocacy segment, find out about the impactful lobbying efforts that led to the reversal of the 80-20 rule and the ongoing debates surrounding minimum wage and tip credits. Learn about the rebranding of the Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance and their efforts to engage the community through social media and annual awards. Finally, get an insider's view on Ohio's promising economic future, with major projects from Intel and Honda set to transform the state's landscape. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the thriving and ever-evolving restaurant and hospitality industry in Ohio!