20 Reasons Why UrbanBacon Works

Have you ever poured your heart into something?  Got lost in the process?  Forgot you’re actually working?  To me, that’s UrbanBacon.  I love restaurants.  I love going out.  I love friends.  It makes my world go around…

Today, the most unbelievable thing happened.  I was slogging through a mundane day, barely holding my eyes open.  Then I received a phone call.  It was Nicolas Carretero from Guido’s Pizzeria and Tapas who we recently interviewed (Check out the interview here).

I picked up the phone “This is Phil.”  Nicolas responded “Hey Phil, how ya doing?”  I thought to myself…well, I could tell him how incredibly slow my day has been.  How much I despise training and the corporate world (my day job).  But I went with a standard “Great, what’s up?”

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Meet Ellen Malloy with Restaurant Intelligence Agency

This week I have the privilege of chatting with Ellen Malloy the founder of Restaurant Intelligence Agency.  Ellen runs a PR site for restaurants and has huge clients in Chicago among other places.  I am a huge fan of her blog called RIA Unplugged.  Before I spill ALL the beans, let’s get to the interview!

1.  First off, thank you for taking the time to sit down with us Ellen.  Let’s get started, you’re the founder of Restaurant Intelligence Agency (R.I.A.).  Can you tell us the story behind R.I.A. and why you created it?

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Meet Nicolas Carretero from Guido’s Pizzeria and Tapas – “A Classic on The St. Louis Hill”

As you may know, The UB Blog loves doing interviews from all walks of life within the restaurant industry.  From food bloggers, owners, and even software programmers.  If they are involved within the industry, we want to meet them.

Today we get to interview an individual who is aspiring as the next generation taking over his family restaurant.  Over this past month, I have had the privilege of working with Nicolas Carretero from Guido’s Pizzeria and Tapas located on The St. Louis Hill.  Before I start yapping away, let’s get to the interview!

1.  First off, welcome to The UB Blog!  Whenever I get the privilege to interview a local restaurant, I want to know the background.  Can you tell me the story behind Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas?

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Meet Andrew Mark Veety – “Welcome to The Church of Burger”


Last month I was privileged enough to interview St. Louis food blogger Andrew Mark Veety (@amveats).  You can check out his blog here.

I have to admit, his blog and burger domination quest is very impressive.  Not to mention his amazing writing style almost makes me a bit jealous.  With out giving too much away, on with the interview!

1.  Andrew, you started your blog back in June 2008.  Since then, your blog has an impressive track record of grilling techniques, pizza making, and even home brewing.  Can you share your story and any goals you wish to accomplish?

Actually, I’ve been maintaining a blog for well over ten years, the current incarnation has lasted about two years, but its really version five.

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Meet Arlene Maminta Browne from Robust Wine Bar: “The Robust Experience”


Welcome to our third interview on UrbanBacon, one that I am totally pumped about!

I was privileged to interview Arlene Maminta Browne from Robust Wine Bar located in our very own St. Louis, MO.  Arlene, and her husband Stanley, are the two masterminds behind the fabulous Robust Experience.  Truly two people who love life, their family, and wine.  Check out their blog to learn more.

I also want to personally thank Arlene for all the insight she has given us.  It is truly appreciated:)  Enough of me, check it out!

1. I know how much I love wine, and I can only imagine what owning a wine bar is like.  Can you tell me the story behind Robust and what are you guys looking to accomplish?

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Meet Paul Tran with Focal Point – “What it Takes to Be a Restaurant Owner”

I randomly met Paul Tran on Twitter one night.  We got to talking, and he blew me away.  This guy is sharp and very in-tune with the restaurant community.  While no longer running his own restaurant, he now focuses on franchising and equity.  Trust me, this interview is a must read for owners!

1. Paul, after reading through your Linked-In profile, I am impressed.  You are a former successful restaurant owner now focused on franchising and equity.  What’s the story behind where you are today?

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Meet Wes Aiken from Schedulefly – A Rockin’ Service for Restaurants

I was privileged to sit down with Wes Aiken from @Schedulefly.  The people at Schedulefly are doing amazing things for the restaurant industry.  I cannot thank Wes enough for taking time from his busy schedule.

This is a must read for restaurant owners! Enough of me yapping, lets get to the interview:

1.  I know what it has taken to develop UrbanBacon, and we still have light years to accomplish.  Can you tell me the story behind Schedulefly and what are you guys looking to accomplish?

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