Latest news with #Craveworthy
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Craveworthy Brands and Taffer's Tavern link for growth opportunities
American TV star Jon Taffer has entered a joint venture with Craveworthy Brands for national expansion of his full-service pub franchise, Taffer's Tavern. The collaboration aims to combine Craveworthy's capabilities in restaurant growth with Taffer's footprint in the market to enhance brand experience and unlock new growth opportunities. The partnership will leverage Craveworthy's diverse portfolio, which includes 17 brands and recent additions such as Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken and Ndamukong Suh's Kinnamōns. Craveworthy CEO and founder Gregg Majewski stated: "When you meet people who care as deeply about hospitality as you do, you know there's something meaningful cooking. We believe great operations are at the core of Craveworthy's success and when it comes to top-tier operators in this space, no one stands out more than Jon Taffer. "We're proud to welcome a brand that shares our passion and commitment to cultivating the best-in-class restaurants, paired with a modern approach to growth. That's what drives us, and that's why this feels like such a natural fit." Taffer's Tavern brings its blend of old-world pub and modern dining experience, featuring a "fast-craft" cocktail programme and a selection of local and national liquors. Guests can expect a floor-to-ceiling bar, offering local beer options and a wine programme. Craveworthy is set to enhance the brand's restaurant operations and scale its national presence through a franchise programme. This presents an option for experienced restaurant operators and entrepreneurs eager to enter the sector, backed by advanced systems, technology and a business model. Jon Taffer stated: "After more than 40 years and hundreds of concepts, I created Taffer's Tavern to connect with people at a deeper level — through food, beverage and environment. That's why partnering with Craveworthy makes so much sense. We share a passion for great food and beverage, exceptional service and building systems that truly work for operators. "With their support and creativity behind us, Taffer's Tavern is positioned to grow faster, smarter, and with the kind of integrity that defines a world-class brand. My entire career has been built on empowering operators to deliver unforgettable experiences to their guests — and that's exactly what this partnership is all about." The joint venture follows Craveworthy Brands' previous strategic move in November 2024, when it partnered New Summit Capital Advisors to form Global Taste Brands. "Craveworthy Brands and Taffer's Tavern link for growth opportunities" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
14-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Craveworthy Brands and Bar Rescue's Jon Taffer Double Down in 'People Business' with New Strategic Venture
Innovative Restaurant Platform to Scale Exceptional Operations and Franchise Program for Taffer's Tavern Founded by Award-Winning Television Host and Executive Producer CHICAGO, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Multi-restaurant platform company, Craveworthy Brands ('Craveworthy') and Taffer's Tavern, one of the first full-service pub franchises founded by award-winning hospitality expert, author, and 'Bar Rescue' television host and executive producer Jon Taffer, have established a strategic joint venture to unlock new growth opportunities and further elevate the brand experience nationwide. Built on a mutual commitment to putting people first, the partnership mixes Craveworthy's proven expertise in restaurant growth with Taffer's star-powered market presence to propel its operations and create a bold, joint vision for the future of hospitality. The full-service concept joins Craveworthy's diverse lineup of 17 brands, alongside its recent additions Ndamukong Suh's Kinnamōns and Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken. Taffer's Tavern is the quintessential modern-day tavern: a warm, inviting gathering place where old friends can reconnect, and new memories are made. Designed with the charm of traditional 'Old-World' pubs and built for today's dining experiences, Taffer's redefines comfort food and favorite classic cocktails through innovation, flavor, and unmatched hospitality. The pub franchise also features a 'fast-craft' cocktail program, marrying advanced mixology techniques with social-forward presentation to create a high-class beverage experience. Signature cocktails are thoughtfully balanced and visually stunning, backed by a curated liquor list that celebrates both national favorites and regional distilleries. Guests can enjoy a floor-to-ceiling bar stocked with local beer selections, perfectly poured drafts and a wine program tailored to market preferences. In addition to its focus on strengthening restaurant operations, Craveworthy will continue to scale the company's national footprint through a franchise program rooted in a hospitality-first approach, culinary innovation, and operational ease. With proven systems, advanced technology, and a streamlined model, the brand presents a compelling opportunity for other experienced restaurant operators and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the industry. Craveworthy is rooted in operational excellence, and when it comes to standout operators in the bar space, few are more respected than legend Jon Taffer. Blending a modern take on the traditional tavern with a low-overhead design and an exceptional guest experience, the concept is backed by Taffer's Tavern's proven track record and Craveworthy's industry-leading support. Leadership Commentary 'When you meet people who care as deeply about hospitality as you do, you know there's something meaningful cooking. We believe great operations are at the core of Craveworthy's success and when it comes to top-tier operators in this space, no one stands out more than Jon Taffer,' said CEO and Founder of Craveworthy, Gregg Majewski. Majewski continued, 'We're proud to welcome a brand that shares our passion and commitment to cultivating the best-in-class restaurants, paired with a modern approach to growth. That's what drives us, and that's why this feels like such a natural fit.' 'Hospitality isn't just a business — it's personal,' said Taffer's Tavern founder, Jon Taffer. 'After more than 40 years and hundreds of concepts, I created Taffer's Tavern to connect with people at a deeper level — through food, beverage, and environment. That's why partnering with Craveworthy makes so much sense. We share a passion for great food and beverage, exceptional service, and building systems that truly work for operators.' Taffer added, 'With their support and creativity behind us, Taffer's Tavern is positioned to grow faster, smarter, and with the kind of integrity that defines a world-class brand. My entire career has been built on empowering operators to deliver unforgettable experiences to their guests — and that's exactly what this partnership is all about.' 'We always open our doors to concepts that put people at the center of their business, and this one just clicked. It has the kind of true heart, soul, and opportunity that makes it a dream business for entrepreneurs. It's the kind of brand that makes you proud to build with,' said Craveworthy's Chief Business Officer, Josh Halpern. Halpern concluded, 'Our goal has always been to deliver brands that stand out and systems that make ownership achievable. This joint partnership blends personality, performance, and potential in a way that's rare in full-service dining. We're excited to help others bring this vision to life in their own communities.' To learn more about Craveworthy Brands, please visit To learn more about Taffer's Tavern, please visit For more information on franchise opportunities with Taffer's Tavern, please complete the form at: ABOUT CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS Craveworthy Brands, the parent company of Shaquille O'Neal-founded Big Chicken, Bd's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Flat Top Grill, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Genghis Grill, Hot Chicken Takeover, Krafted Burger Bar + Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Nomad Dawgs, Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Sigri Indian BBQ, Taffer's Tavern by 'Bar Rescue's' Jon Taffer, taim Mediterranean Kitchen, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On!, is dedicated to invigorating and supercharging legacy brands while nurturing and growing emerging brands. The company brings together diverse, yet complementary brands and an accomplished, veteran leadership team in the growing culinary space. In addition to building and operating leading restaurant brands, Craveworthy Brands is active in the communities it serves and creates exciting career opportunities for its team members. Bridging the distinctive individuality of its concepts with a shared culture and spirit of collaboration, the Company's goal is to create truly unique and craveworthy experiences every day, every shift and at every turn. Learn more about Craveworthy and its brands at ABOUT JON TAFFER Jon Taffer is an award-winning hospitality expert, entrepreneur and thought leader with nearly 40 years of experience in the hospitality, entertainment and nightlife industries. Best known as executive producer and star of Paramount Network's Bar Rescue, a non-scripted reality show that spotlights Jon as he saves failing bars from looming closure now in its ninth season. His latest endeavor is Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, a rich, bold bourbon whiskey with notes of vanilla and toffee inspired by his years of cocktail and culinary creations. In 2025, Jon partnered with multi-brand restaurant platform, Craveworthy Brands, to scale his innovative, full-service restaurant franchise concept, Taffer's Tavern, which debuted in Atlanta in 2020. Taffer's Tavern features outstanding signature cocktails, elevated tavern foods and the latest advancements in restaurant technologies. Concurrently, Jon runs Taffer Dynamics, his business consulting firm. Over the years, he has consulted for a range of well-known brands, including the NFL Network, Anheuser-Bush, Ritz-Carlton, TGI Fridays, Buffalo Wild Wings, Famous Dave's Barbecue and Fortune 500 brands such as Hyatt Hotels and Marriott International. In addition, Jon is a best-selling author having written three books: 'Raise the Bar,' 'Don't Bulls*t Yourself' and his newest book 'The Power of Conflict: Speak Your Mind and Get the Results You Want.' For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Craveworthy Brands
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Craveworthy Brands and Bar Rescue's Jon Taffer Double Down in 'People Business' with New Strategic Venture
Innovative Restaurant Platform to Scale Exceptional Operations and Franchise Program for Taffer's Tavern Founded by Award-Winning Television Host and Executive Producer CHICAGO, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Multi-restaurant platform company, Craveworthy Brands ("Craveworthy") and Taffer's Tavern, one of the first full-service pub franchises founded by award-winning hospitality expert, author, and "Bar Rescue" television host and executive producer Jon Taffer, have established a strategic joint venture to unlock new growth opportunities and further elevate the brand experience nationwide. Built on a mutual commitment to putting people first, the partnership mixes Craveworthy's proven expertise in restaurant growth with Taffer's star-powered market presence to propel its operations and create a bold, joint vision for the future of hospitality. The full-service concept joins Craveworthy's diverse lineup of 17 brands, alongside its recent additions Ndamukong Suh's Kinnamōns and Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken. Taffer's Tavern is the quintessential modern-day tavern: a warm, inviting gathering place where old friends can reconnect, and new memories are made. Designed with the charm of traditional 'Old-World' pubs and built for today's dining experiences, Taffer's redefines comfort food and favorite classic cocktails through innovation, flavor, and unmatched hospitality. The pub franchise also features a "fast-craft" cocktail program, marrying advanced mixology techniques with social-forward presentation to create a high-class beverage experience. Signature cocktails are thoughtfully balanced and visually stunning, backed by a curated liquor list that celebrates both national favorites and regional distilleries. Guests can enjoy a floor-to-ceiling bar stocked with local beer selections, perfectly poured drafts and a wine program tailored to market preferences. In addition to its focus on strengthening restaurant operations, Craveworthy will continue to scale the company's national footprint through a franchise program rooted in a hospitality-first approach, culinary innovation, and operational ease. With proven systems, advanced technology, and a streamlined model, the brand presents a compelling opportunity for other experienced restaurant operators and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the industry. Craveworthy is rooted in operational excellence, and when it comes to standout operators in the bar space, few are more respected than legend Jon Taffer. Blending a modern take on the traditional tavern with a low-overhead design and an exceptional guest experience, the concept is backed by Taffer's Tavern's proven track record and Craveworthy's industry-leading support. Leadership Commentary "When you meet people who care as deeply about hospitality as you do, you know there's something meaningful cooking. We believe great operations are at the core of Craveworthy's success and when it comes to top-tier operators in this space, no one stands out more than Jon Taffer," said CEO and Founder of Craveworthy, Gregg Majewski. Majewski continued, "We're proud to welcome a brand that shares our passion and commitment to cultivating the best-in-class restaurants, paired with a modern approach to growth. That's what drives us, and that's why this feels like such a natural fit." "Hospitality isn't just a business — it's personal," said Taffer's Tavern founder, Jon Taffer. "After more than 40 years and hundreds of concepts, I created Taffer's Tavern to connect with people at a deeper level — through food, beverage, and environment. That's why partnering with Craveworthy makes so much sense. We share a passion for great food and beverage, exceptional service, and building systems that truly work for operators." Taffer added, "With their support and creativity behind us, Taffer's Tavern is positioned to grow faster, smarter, and with the kind of integrity that defines a world-class brand. My entire career has been built on empowering operators to deliver unforgettable experiences to their guests — and that's exactly what this partnership is all about." "We always open our doors to concepts that put people at the center of their business, and this one just clicked. It has the kind of true heart, soul, and opportunity that makes it a dream business for entrepreneurs. It's the kind of brand that makes you proud to build with," said Craveworthy's Chief Business Officer, Josh Halpern. Halpern concluded, "Our goal has always been to deliver brands that stand out and systems that make ownership achievable. This joint partnership blends personality, performance, and potential in a way that's rare in full-service dining. We're excited to help others bring this vision to life in their own communities." To learn more about Craveworthy Brands, please visit To learn more about Taffer's Tavern, please visit For more information on franchise opportunities with Taffer's Tavern, please complete the form at: ABOUT CRAVEWORTHY BRANDSCraveworthy Brands, the parent company of Shaquille O'Neal-founded Big Chicken, Bd's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Flat Top Grill, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Genghis Grill, Hot Chicken Takeover, Krafted Burger Bar + Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Nomad Dawgs, Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Sigri Indian BBQ, Taffer's Tavern by "Bar Rescue's" Jon Taffer, taim Mediterranean Kitchen, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On!, is dedicated to invigorating and supercharging legacy brands while nurturing and growing emerging brands. The company brings together diverse, yet complementary brands and an accomplished, veteran leadership team in the growing culinary space. In addition to building and operating leading restaurant brands, Craveworthy Brands is active in the communities it serves and creates exciting career opportunities for its team members. Bridging the distinctive individuality of its concepts with a shared culture and spirit of collaboration, the Company's goal is to create truly unique and craveworthy experiences every day, every shift and at every turn. Learn more about Craveworthy and its brands at ABOUT JON TAFFER Jon Taffer is an award-winning hospitality expert, entrepreneur and thought leader with nearly 40 years of experience in the hospitality, entertainment and nightlife industries. Best known as executive producer and star of Paramount Network's Bar Rescue, a non-scripted reality show that spotlights Jon as he saves failing bars from looming closure now in its ninth season. His latest endeavor is Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, a rich, bold bourbon whiskey with notes of vanilla and toffee inspired by his years of cocktail and culinary creations. In 2025, Jon partnered with multi-brand restaurant platform, Craveworthy Brands, to scale his innovative, full-service restaurant franchise concept, Taffer's Tavern, which debuted in Atlanta in 2020. Taffer's Tavern features outstanding signature cocktails, elevated tavern foods and the latest advancements in restaurant technologies. Concurrently, Jon runs Taffer Dynamics, his business consulting firm. Over the years, he has consulted for a range of well-known brands, including the NFL Network, Anheuser-Bush, Ritz-Carlton, TGI Fridays, Buffalo Wild Wings, Famous Dave's Barbecue and Fortune 500 brands such as Hyatt Hotels and Marriott International. In addition, Jon is a best-selling author having written three books: "Raise the Bar," "Don't Bulls*t Yourself" and his newest book "The Power of Conflict: Speak Your Mind and Get the Results You Want." For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Craveworthy Brands Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Craveworthy Brands to Become Managing Partner and Investor of Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken
Star-Powered Fast-Casual Chicken Concept Founded by Hall of Fame Basketball Star to Join Craveworthy Brands' Robust Portfolio Multi-Brand Platform Company Prepares to Lead Big Chicken's Restaurant Operations, Powering its Future Success and Legacy CHICAGO, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Craveworthy Brands ("Craveworthy,") the innovative multi-restaurant platform company, will become a managing partner, investor and stakeholder of Big Chicken, the award-winning and acclaimed fast casual chicken brand founded by Hall of Fame basketball player, Shaquille O'Neal. In addition to the new Craveworthy investment and management role, Big Chicken is backed by O'Neal, JRS Hospitality ("JRS") and Authentic Brands Group ("ABG"), the renowned brand management company. Current Big Chicken CEO Josh Halpern will continue overseeing the Brand, working alongside Craveworthy Brands CEO and Founder Gregg Majewski to drive growth at Big Chicken and across the broader Craveworthy portfolio. Big Chicken will join Craveworthy's robust portfolio of 15 brands that operate in various culinary segments including chicken, contributing to the collective growth of its family of brands. Leading operational initiatives and leveraging its proven playbook throughout Big Chicken's locations, Craveworthy will focus on driving long-term growth and reinforcing the Brand's distinctively energetic "Big Flavor. Big Food. Big Fun." guest experience. In collaboration with O'Neal, JRS and ABG, Craveworthy will manage and provide expertise across key functions such as operations, training, supply chain management, culinary development and customer service, while the Brand retains its core identity. Its deep bench of accomplished restaurants operations leaders and the power of its platform model pairs well with Big Chicken to optimize performance and fuel continued growth at all levels. With 40-plus locations open and more than 350 in development, Big Chicken continues to grow globally, bringing its signature bold flavors and Shaq-sized personality to guests everywhere. The Big Chicken menu features today's trending bold flavors, while also paying homage to many of O'Neal's favorite home-cooked childhood favorites. Beyond its treasured chicken sandwich and tenders line-up, the menu includes Lucille's Mac N' Cheese (mother), Shakes and Wings, all key aspects of O'Neal's personal and professional lives. The alignment between the two companies will further Big Chicken's commitment to innovation and streamlined processes, while also leveraging shared resources to strengthen market position and franchise expansion. Leadership Commentary "This one-of-a-kind opportunity truly embodies the mission behind why I founded Craveworthy—to build a full-stack platform that aligns with top brands like Big Chicken and infuses broad-reaching support through proven systems and support to thrive in the evolving restaurant industry," said Majewski. "I'm excited to team up with Gregg and the Craveworthy team. It's a marriage of two BIG time talented organizations," said Halpern, the brand's first and only CEO and the architect of its impressive franchise growth. "Gregg and I have a strong professional relationship and he's the type of leader we'll match with well. I feel fantastic about our future." Majewski added, "As investors, managing partners and leaders in restaurant operations, we're going to fully leverage the Craveworthy team's deep industry expertise to propel Big Chicken to new heights, all while preserving what makes the Brand so unique to its loyal guests." "We believe the combination of a great brand and a great operator in Gregg's a unique opportunity for us as investors. Shaquille O'Neal himself is an iconic brand and Big Chicken will become the iconic chicken sandwich," said Lee Larson, CEO and Founder of Everstar Asset Management ("Everstar.") "By applying our platform's operational excellence and strategic growth strategies, we're ready to take the next step in shaping Big Chicken's bright future—expanding the Brand's reach, elevating the guest experience and driving innovation on all fronts to ensure its continued resilience, success and legacy for years to come," concluded Majewski. "The drive and determination that runs throughout Big Chicken mirrors what I've seen within the entire Craveworthy organization," added Halpern. "It's the right time to go even BIGGER with the brand, so this is an incredible step forward for the entire brand ecosystem. Let's gooo!" Transaction Advisors and Partners Everstar serves as a valued strategic advisor to Craveworthy and has invested through Everstar Funds in both Craveworthy and the newly formed partnership with Big Chicken. Everstar is the manager for a private investment fund and offers actively managed portfolios for institutions and high-net-worth clients. Entrepreneur and Super Bowl Champion Ndamukong Suh is an active investor in the newly cultivated partnership with Big Chicken and partner in Craveworthy. Suh is a steadfast believer in the Company's vision and his commitment will help fuel its continued growth and innovation. To learn more about Craveworthy Brands, please visit To learn more about Big Chicken, please visit ABOUT CRAVEWORTHY BRANDSCraveworthy Brands, the parent company of Shaquille O'Neal-founded Big Chicken, Bd's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Flat Top Grill, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Genghis Grill, Hot Chicken Takeover, Krafted Burger Bar + Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Nomad Dawgs, Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Sigri Indian BBQ, Soom Soom Mediterranean, taim Mediterranean Kitchen, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On!, is dedicated to invigorating and supercharging legacy brands while nurturing and growing emerging brands. The company brings together diverse, yet complementary brands and an accomplished, veteran leadership team in the growing culinary space. In addition to building and operating leading restaurant brands, Craveworthy Brands is active in the communities it serves and creates exciting career opportunities for its team members. Bridging the distinctive individuality of its concepts with a shared culture and spirit of collaboration, the Company's goal is to create truly unique and craveworthy experiences every day, every shift and at every turn. Learn more about Craveworthy and its brands at ABOUT BIG CHICKEN Founded in 2018, Big Chicken is backed by a dream team of partners; JRS Hospitality, an accomplished Las Vegas-based ownership group; Authentic Brands Group, a multi-national, multi-billion-dollar brand development, marketing and entertainment company; and Hall of Fame basketball star Shaquille O'Neal. In early 2025, Craveworthy Brands, a leading, multi-brand restaurant platform company, made a strategic investment in the Brand, which included managing operational control. Big Chicken fuses O'Neal's home-cooked childhood favorites with today's trending flavors. From crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders to Cheez-It® crusted Mac n' Cheese and hand-crafted ice cream shakes, each menu item tells a story all while offering guests an inside look into the life and personality of Shaquille O'Neal. With several traditional locations currently open and in the development pipeline, Big Chicken is prepped to begin U.S. and international expansion through franchising. To learn more about Big Chicken, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Craveworthy Brands
