A few minutes with Ryan Nizzo

We talk to Ryan Nizzo, Baton Rouge chapter president of the Louisiana Restaurant Association and manager of Walk-ons/Burbank.

225: It seems like new restaurants are opening all the time in Baton Rouge. How much growth are we really seeing?

RN: The Greater Baton Rouge market in particular is growing exponentially. There has been a 10% to 15% growth in restaurants over the last couple of years here. We’re seeing new concepts open and we’re also seeing more Baton Rouge-based restaurants open new locations in Livingston, Ascension and Zachary.

225: What are some of the big trends you’re seeing among local eateries?

RN: One of the things that’s become more important is how restaurants can capture the family market. Parents are taking their kids to dinner more, so you want to create opportunities for families to find things on your menu whose price points are appealing.

225: How would you describe the average Baton Rouge diner?

RN: Incredibly loyal. Baton Rougeans find restaurants they like and they stay loyal to them. With Walk-ons, we find that people who came to us in college are coming back now with their families. I saw that loyalty as well working for TJ Ribs and ACME.

225: What’s the biggest challenge for local restaurants today?

RN: Staffing. It’s a direct result of the growth in numbers of restaurants. It’s become really important for restaurants to find new ways of hanging on to their workforce. It’s not always about the money. We’re finding that people want to work in a great atmosphere and feel appreciated.

225: Local restaurants seem to be increasing their frequency of things like event nights, art openings, trivia competitions and nonprofit partnerships. Why is that?

RN: People eat out for a number of reasons. They want food they can’t produce at home. They want to escape and they need an outlet for their families. A good restaurant won’t be complacent but will constantly find new ways of getting guests to come back. If you’re a restaurant, stale is something you want to avoid–on a number of levels.