‘Fine Casual’ May Be Buzzy, but in the U.S., Tradition Still Holds Strong
Photo Caption: Brooklyn's Olmsted has a distinct neighborhood feel, but attracts a nationwide audience.
Skift Take
Lest we get caught up in a world of labels, let's recognize success where we see it: neighborhood, sit-down restaurants featuring high-quality food and top-notch service continue to operate thanks to a creative focus on what's working and what diners want.
In spite of current trends indicating the return to traditional formal restaurants and the onset of counter service-only fast fine dining, casual, higher-end, sit-down restaurants remain not only the backbone of fine American dining, but examples of creativity and good business sense.
These places combine well-executed and thoughtful (and of often small) plates, a neighborhood feel, and affordable pricing exert a nationwide influence. Sometimes described as “new American,” these restaurants often feature some sort of outside influence: Compere Lapin in New Orleans, for instance, blends Creole and Italian influences, Philadelphia’s Res Ipsa combines Italian and Mediterranean elements.
“Chefs, restaurateurs, and sommeliers have become public figures and led people to check out more serious and better food,” said Andrew Fortgang, the co-owner of Portland, Oregon’s Le Pigeon and Little Bird. The former is much-lauded and -loved fine dining restaurant with bare tables and bl
