Episode 282 - Dan Mesches of Picnik

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by the Swanky Maven herself, Felice Sloan to discuss the latest headlines from around the Houston restaurant and bar scene. The pair discuss Ouzo Bay's closure, Concura Italian Bites shuttering to transform into a new concept under new ownership, and the closing of New York Eatery in Bellaire. For the Restaurants of the Week section of the podcast, Graffiti Raw is featured. In the Guest of the Week portion Eric is joined by Dan Mesches of Picnik. Dan speaks with Eric about how he got started in the hospitality business, working with the Hopdoddy Burger brand, how he got started with Sprinkles, where did the connection between Picnik and Sprinkles come from, the decision to come to Houston, the neighborhood they're in, how he defines Picnik, offering comfort food that's good for you, how people should approach the menu, the beverage options, why butter coffee, how things are going at Picnik so far since opening, how they differentiate themselves in the market, staff culture, expectations for the future, expansion plans, and more!  Follow Eric on Instagram and Twitter, plus check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Lavish Mediterranean Seafood Restaurant Suddenly Shutters in River Oaks District Stylish River Oaks Eatery's Surprise Shutter Opens Door for Houston Food Veteran's New Italian Restaurant Jewish Bagel Shop Owners Shutter Their Bellaire NYC-Inspired Restaurant After Just 2 Years 14 Last Minute Mother's Day Restaurant Specials in Houston Serve Up Decadent and Diverse Dining Union Kitchen Owner Swaps Comfort Food for Italian at New Washington Avenue Restaurant Blooming Healthy-Eating Restaurant Sprouts 4th Houston Location in Town & Country