Latest news with #StickyRice
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Initiative 82: Bowser calls for repeal of controversial DC ballot measure
The Brief Bowser proposes repeal of Initiative 82, citing economic concerns. Some restaurant owners blame the policy for closures and financial struggles. Supporters argue the measure was overwhelmingly approved by voters. WASHINGTON - D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced plans to repeal Initiative 82, the voter-approved measure that gradually increases the minimum wage for tipped workers to match that of non-tipped employees. Bowser seeks Initiative 82 repeal What we know READ MORE: Another DC restaurant closing down, blaming controversial 'Initiative 82' Passed in 2022, the initiative is set to bring tipped workers to the same minimum wage non-tipped workers make — doing so in increments. In D.C., minimum wage is supposed to reach $17.95 hourly wage by July. Under I-82, tipped workers would reach that amount by 2027. However, Bowser argues that shifting economic conditions warrant reconsideration of the policy. "The economy we're dealing with right now, and the environment for restaurants, is vastly different from the economy and conditions restaurants faced when this ballot measure was introduced," Bowser said during her FY2026 budget proposal announcement on Monday. READ MORE: DC Mayor Bowser calls for repeal of controversial Initiative 82 amid restaurant closures Restaurants cite financial strain Some restaurant owners blame Initiative 82 for financial struggles, citing rising costs, decreased foot traffic, and lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among them is Haikan, a ramen restaurant that closed on Saturday after 10 years in business. Despite these concerns, many D.C. residents still support the measure. A union rally is planned outside the Wilson Building on Tuesday morning where demonstrators will advocate for keeping Initiative 82, highlighting its overwhelming approval by 73% of voters. READ MORE: DC restaurant 'Sticky Rice' blames Initiative 82 as it prepares to close down The Source Information in this article comes from The Office of the Mayor of D.C. and The Associated Press.
FACT
10-04-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Kew's debuts in Abu Dhabi with an original take on fried chicken
Kew-up for fried chicken glory from the team behind the FACT award-winning Sticky Rice. If there's one thing the UAE isn't short on, it's fried chicken joints. From spicy wings to golden-crispy thighs, it's safe to say that this comfort food has a loyal following in the region. An exciting new addition is coming to the capital, Kew's, which aims to switch up the game a little bit. Opening on 17 April, Kew's is backed by the beloved Sticky Rice team, which is also a FACT-award winner. Occupying a prime spot in Abu Dhabi, this new restaurant will be opening its doors within Sticky Rice in Yas Mall. From humble beginnings, Sticky Rice has become a go-to for anyone craving terrific Thai food — and now, with Kew's, it's ready to conquer the fried chicken scene too. But Kew's is unlike other fried chicken spots. It's the first fried chicken concept in the Middle East to exclusively use premium beef tallow, which is a traditional, all-natural fat known to bring its rich flavour to food. This approach enhances the taste of the fried chicken that'll have you licking your fingers. And while the fried chicken remains the start of Kew's menu, it's got plenty of other offerings for you to enjoy. The restaurant will also be serving crispy tallow fries, a chicken sandwich made in Hokkaido milk bread, Sticky Tamarind, Kong Kang, Thai BBQ, sour mango slaw, Hainanese rice, and tropical-style coconut milk-based shake,s amongst many others. With these delicious items and an award-winning backing, Kew's is poised to be a game changer in Abu Dhabi. More so because its name gives a sweet nod to Sticky Rice's yellow duckling mascot, Kew. The original Sticky Rice can be found in Dubai's Jumeirah Village Circle and was a passion project initiated by Amena Rakkuson (affectionately known as Mama) and her son, Mo Abedin. Rakkuson, a self-taught cook, who harboured a desire to open her own restaurant, began preparing meals in her family kitchen and delivering them to customers across Dubai. Over time, she built a loyal following that regularly ordered her traditional Thai delicacies. Tragically, Amena passed away in 2021 due to COVID-19-related complications. Kew's is the next step in securing her legacy. GO: Visit @stickyriceae on Instagram for more information.
