Value of Free Publicity!

Eateries cash in on TV appearance

Scott Olson
September 2, 2010
IBJ.com

The venerable Edwards Drive In on Indianapolis' southeast side has built quite a clientele in its 53-year existence. But the old-fashioned eatery has attracted scores of newcomers since its national television debut last month.

Edwards, along with Bub's Burgers & Ice Cream in Carmel and Gray Brothers Cafeteria in Mooresville, were featured Aug. 18 on the Travel Channel's popoular "Man v. Food" TV show.

For Jeff Edwards, who operates the family-owned drive-in at the corner of Raymond Street and Sherman Drive with his sister, the national exposure has created quite a stir.

After the airing, Edwards instructed his staff to query customers on whether they've been to the restaurant before.

"Three out of five were brand new, which is an alarming amount considering we out 500 to 600 customers through every day," he said. "It's created a tremendous amount of travel business, because they've seen it on the show."

to read the full article... click here.

Check out Thirst rises for liquor licenses in Marion County

Thirst rises for liquor licenses in Marion County
IBJ.com

Finding the golden ticket of a liquor license in Indianapolis can be tricky—and costly. All 321 permits allowed in Marion County under a state quota have been allotted. Unless a restaurant is opening in an “off-quota” district, the owner has to find someone willing to transfer an existing license.

Contact me to find out more about existing bars/restaurants for sale in Indianapolis!
Inbizsales@aol.com

Congrats Taki Sawi of Santorini Greek Kitchen!!!!

2010 Faces of Diversity American Dream Award winner: Taki Sawi

Business Sherpa says...
"One of Indy's best restauranteurs, congratulations Taki!!!!! If you haven't been to his restaurant--check it out for a real treat."
To view video go to... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZjvwbCY2PU&feature=player_embedded

How I Did It: Jerry Murrell, Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Along with his sons, Jerry Murrell of Five Guys Burgers and Fries built a 570-store chain that enjoys a cult following.

Business Sherpa says... "Interesting read for anyone in the food business."

As Told to Liz Welch
Apr 1, 2010

Sell a really good, juicy burger on a fresh bun. Make perfect French fries. Don't cut corners. That's been the business plan since Jerry Murrell and his sons opened their first burger joint in 1986. When they began selling franchises in 2002, the family had just five stores in northern Virginia. Today, there are 570 stores across the U.S. and Canada, with 2009 sales of $483 million. Overseeing the opening of about four new restaurants a week, the Murrells are proof that flipping burgers doesn't have to be a dead-end job.

Read more to find out how they did it… click here.