Magggiano’s Little Italy, a well-known American casual dining restaurant chain specializing in Italian-American cuisine, has a strong connection to Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE). This article explores the nature of that relationship.
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The Founding of Maggiano’s
Maggiano’s Little Italy was founded in Chicago in November 1991. The restaurant was the brainchild of Rich Melman, co-founder of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE), a restaurant group responsible for launching several successful eateries.
Lettuce Entertain You’s Role
Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) played a key role in the initial establishment of Maggiano’s. LEYE helped kickstart the restaurant’s concept and initial operations.
Current Affiliation
While Maggiano’s was initially created by Lettuce Entertain You, it’s important to note that Maggiano’s is now owned by Brinker International, which acquired it four years after its founding. However, a special relationship remains in place. Maggiano’s honors the Lettuce Entertain You Frequent Diner program at Chicagoland locations and accepts Lettuce Entertain You gift cards nationwide.
Maggiano’s Philosophy
Maggiano’s places a strong emphasis on creating a positive experience for both guests and teammates, fostering a sense of belonging and ownership within the company.
Magggiano’s Little Italy, a well-known American casual dining restaurant chain specializing in Italian-American cuisine, has a strong connection to Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE). This article explores the nature of that relationship.
Maggiano’s Little Italy was founded in Chicago in November 1991. The restaurant was the brainchild of Rich Melman, co-founder of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE), a restaurant group responsible for launching several successful eateries.
Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) played a key role in the initial establishment of Maggiano’s. LEYE helped kickstart the restaurant’s concept and initial operations.
While Maggiano’s was initially created by Lettuce Entertain You, it’s important to note that Maggiano’s is now owned by Brinker International, which acquired it four years after its founding. However, a special relationship remains in place. Maggiano’s honors the Lettuce Entertain You Frequent Diner program at Chicagoland locations and accepts Lettuce Entertain You gift cards nationwide.
Maggiano’s places a strong emphasis on creating a positive experience for both guests and teammates, fostering a sense of belonging and ownership within the company.
Maggiano’s Today: A National Presence
Since its acquisition by Brinker International, Maggiano’s has expanded significantly. It now operates in more than 20 states, offering a more upscale dining experience compared to other Brinker concepts like Chili’s. This expansion has allowed Maggiano’s to reach a broader audience while maintaining its commitment to quality and a memorable dining experience.
The LEYE Legacy: A Continuing Influence
Even though Maggiano’s is no longer under direct LEYE ownership, the influence of Lettuce Entertain You’s initial vision remains. The emphasis on hospitality, guest satisfaction, and a unique dining atmosphere are all hallmarks of the LEYE philosophy that continue to be reflected in the Maggiano’s experience. The acceptance of LEYE gift cards and the honoring of the Frequent Diner program are tangible examples of this lasting connection.
