The recent release by the Founders League of a map of the startup ecosystem in Rhode Island is long on identifying the traditional Knowledge Economy innovators (not that there is anything wrong with that). But one sector of the economy that does not seem to get as many startup props as it could is the restaurant scene.
Perhaps the opening of a new restaurant is not seen as a disruptive business model, thus, not really an enterprise that will turn the world on its head. But one coming eatery may just be that kind of venture.
The Revolving Door on lower Thames Street in Newport is set to open soon based on a concept both organic and adapted from the retail industry. Created by the owners of Restaurant Bouchard & Inn, The Revolving Door will offer guest chefs an opportunity to run a “pop-up restaurant’ for up to two weeks.
The idea takes the popular guest-chef concept – used to great effect by Gracie’s in Providence, among others – and extends it to the point of creating an entire restaurant without any permanent approach. Rather, each time a patron comes to that establishment, he is greeted not just by a new menu but by a new perspective. It is an exciting idea and well worth more than a little attention. Bon appétit! •