How to Build Your Restaurant Back Office Software Stack
Learn how to build a restaurant back office software stack that improves efficiency, integrations, reporting, cost control, and scalability overall.
Aug 21, 2026
Learn how to build a restaurant back office software stack that improves efficiency, integrations, reporting, cost control, and scalability overall.
Aug 21, 2026
Clear operating procedures help restaurants manage opening, closing, food preparation, sanitation, guest service, inventory, staffing, and routine operational reviews effectively.
Aug 21, 2026
Starbucks is making strategic staffing changes, laying off 200+ workers as it restructures operations and prepares for future growth in southern and eastern regions.
Aug 21, 2026
Dog Haus appoints James Field as chief marketing officer and promotes CJ Ramirez to chief experience officer, setting the stage for innovative brand growth and franchisee success in the national restaurant scene.
Aug 21, 2026
Payroll advances help restaurant owners give hourly employees earlier access to earned wages while maintaining accurate records, policies, and compliance.
Aug 19, 2026
Panera Bread welcomes Andrew Rebhun as Chief Marketing Officer, succeeding Mark Shambura. Learn about his background at CAVA, El Pollo Loco, and McDonald's.
Aug 20, 2026
Learn how to open a restaurant with no experience by planning your concept, budget, location, team, operations, and successful launch.
Aug 19, 2026
Taco Bell’s Taylor Montgomery has been appointed as President of Jack in the Box, positioning him to take over as CEO within a year - signaling major shifts for the QSR brand's future.
Aug 20, 2026
Explore the main types of ordering technology restaurants use to improve accuracy, speed, payments, customer convenience, and operational efficiency daily.
Aug 17, 2026
Learn the eight essential steps of the restaurant payroll process, from tracking hours and calculating wages to payments and recordkeeping.
Aug 17, 2026
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Explore how P.J. Whelihan’s Pub & Restaurant successfully manages its operations and growth strategy in the casual dining industry.
Photo by Taylor Davidson
P.J. Whelihan’s Pub & Restaurant has been strategically expanding its footprint in the greater Philadelphia area. Founded in 1983, the chain has shown consistent growth, typically opening two to three restaurants annually. While there was a pause in expansion in 2021, the company resumed its growth trajectory in 2022. The recent acquisition by Garnett Station Partners further signals the brand's commitment to growth and development.
Photo by Taylor Davidson
CEO Jessica Breslow emphasized the importance of focusing on the core P.J. Whelihan’s brand. By concentrating on enhancing operational training, efficient buildouts, and smooth operations, the chain has refined its approach to ensure consistency and quality across all its locations. This strategic focus has enabled P.J. Whelihan’s to enhance customer experience and brand loyalty.
Photo by Taylor Davidson
A key aspect of P.J. Whelihan’s success lies in its deep connection with the local community, particularly young sports teams and families. By providing a welcoming environment for these groups, the restaurant has created a loyal customer base that extends beyond casual dining to business lunches and special occasions. This connection underscores the importance of building relationships with customers for long-term success.
In response to changing consumer behaviors, P.J. Whelihan’s embraced off-premises sales, which accounted for a significant portion of total sales post-pandemic. CEO Jessica Breslow’s IT background played a crucial role in enabling the brand to pivot successfully to meet the growing demand for takeout and delivery services. This adaptability showcased the brand's agility in responding to market trends.
Photo by Taylor Davidson
While P.J. Whelihan’s has experienced steady growth, the brand remains focused on the greater Philadelphia market. The decision not to franchise or expand extensively beyond the region highlights the company's commitment to maintaining its roots and serving the local community. By prioritizing the market they know well, P.J. Whelihan’s can continue to strengthen its presence and impact in the area.