In this episode of "Hold the Line, Kitchen Talk," we explore the major challenges facing the restaurant industry in 2024. From soaring inflation and labor shortages to the digital divide and evolving consumer habits, the landscape is rapidly changing. We dive into how restaurants are adapting, including insights from industry experts like Bobby Flay and Robert Irvine. Whether you’re a restaurateur, chef, or foodie, this episode offers essential insights into the future of dining.

1. Inflation and Rising Costs:
   • How inflation is impacting menu pricing and customer retention.
   • Insights from Bobby Flay’s recent interview on rising costs.
2. Labor Shortages:
   • The ongoing struggle to hire and retain staff.
   • Robert Irvine’s perspective on the labor crisis in restaurants.
3. Technology Integration:
   • The growing digital divide in the restaurant industry.
   • Key 2024 tech trends, including cloud-based POS systems and AI.
4. Sustainability and Waste Management:
   • The push for eco-friendly practices despite high upfront costs.
   • Real-world examples of sustainable strategies from NBC News.
5. Changing Consumer Behavior:
   • How consumers are adjusting their dining habits amidst inflation.
   • Findings from a recent CNBC article on consumer trends and tipping practices.

Key Takeaways:

• The restaurant industry must adapt to survive challenges like inflation, labor shortages, and evolving consumer demands.
• Embracing technology and sustainability are crucial for staying competitive.
• Understanding and meeting consumer expectations will be key to thriving in this new landscape.

(199) Why The Future Of Cooking Is Going To Be Zero Waste - YouTube

As inflation hits restaurants, consumers are seeking deals more often (cnbc.com)

Newsome raises the minimum wage
Biden shakes down Sheetz

Surf the Web:
Utah students walkout to protest furries in middle school
Anti-Israel protesters have no clue
Biden family member eaten by cannibals

In this episode we will talk about my new career path and my culinary background leading up to becoming the boldchef. A quick look into the breakfast comeback and the top cocktail and wine trends across the country finishing with a nice fall cocktail


https://www.southernglazers.com/newsroom/liquid-insights-tour-report
https://insanelygoodrecipes.com/fall-cocktails/

It's Turkey day, so lets get that list ready, plastic protein? and franchises boom

-Everyone is headed back out, but why be so mean

-Another look at the labor shortage from a restaurant owner trying to get back to 100% staffing

-The perfect batch of French fries

Pennsylvania is Free! (Almost) Tom Wolf removes restrictions but keeps mask mandate

Janet Yellen jumps in the game to let restaurant workers know that its childcare, not free money and extended unemployment benefits keeping people home

It's My Birthday! 33 years in the game so we celebrate with some words from the late, great Anthony Bourdain

Its April and we finally have some restrictions removed from restaurants and bars. You can now drink at a bar without ordering food. Also Walmart and other big companies are sinking their teeth into the ghost kitchen game. And we have some heroes up north that help a young lady that owns a restaurant remove some cocky health inspectors

Quick little easter list to keep you on track for tomorrow. If you didn't already start, don't worry, you're not alone, I'm in the same boat