ICYMI: Good Food on Montford is closing Aug. 29 and a new concept called Bittersweet will reopen in its place later this year, first reported by my friends at Axios.
Quick background: Lee Ann Dolcetto, who’s been with restaurateur Bruce Moffett for 18 years, is taking over the Montford spot. The timing of this handoff came down to math, Bruce tells me.
- The lease was up, he didn’t want to sign up for another six year-run, and Lee Ann had an idea of her own.
What’s next: Lee Ann will spend the next 3-4 months revamping the space, which will include a new lounge area, and honing her menu.
- Bruce is sticking around as a consultant, so you might see some nods to Good Food.
- There’s a succession plan for Barrington’s and Stagioni, too. It’s all part of the five-year vision, Bruce says. (Don’t worry; these spots aren’t going anywhere and would keep operating within the MRG fam.)
Yes, but: The last time I spoke with Bruce about slowing down, he opened Sala. And his wheels are already turning about how to spend this new free time.
- “I never quite got over closing NC Red,” Bruce told me.
- So, he may play around with reviving that concept in some variation, he says.
The bigger picture: I asked Bruce if he took it as a compliment—that people tend to work for him forever and start dreaming bigger.
- “That’s exactly what I want—a good family tree. That’s the legacy I want.”
Bruce shared one really important recipe before we hung up: To build something that matters to people, empower your team to act like owners and make sure you’re truly proud of what you’re creating for your customers.
