Popular local restaurant wins award for outstanding renovation
Panama City, FL (RestaurantNews.com) Ever since it opened last October, the Bennigan’s at the Panama City Mall has been earning accolades for its craveable chef-driven food, innovative drinks and friendly Irish hospitality. But the recognition recently has extended even further.
Last week, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce presented franchise owner David Hollinger with its “Apple of our Eye” Award for going above and beyond the organization’s expectations with its recent renovation.
“We’re so proud that David and his wife, Deanna, have brought Bennigan’s back to Panama City, and that they’ve designed a truly exceptional restaurant at the mall,” said Carol Roberts, President & CEO of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. “If you haven’t gone by there for lunch, dinner or drinks yet, I have to ask: What are you waiting for?”
The Panama City Mall restaurant has added nearly 100 jobs to the local economy, offers 16 beers on tap, 14 HD TVs throughout the facility and a climate-controlled outdoor patio with a fire pit that doubles as a VIP meeting room. In addition to the World Famous Monte Cristo, the menu features such traditional Bennigan’s favorites as its Oh, Baby™ Back Ribs, the Turkey O’Toole, the Big Irish double decker hamburger and a wide assortment of recently introduced specialty drinks.
“When it comes to our food, our service and even our restaurant design, Bennigan’s has always been known for going above and beyond to deliver Legendary experiences for our guests,” said Hollinger. “Of course, we always appreciate when others recognize our efforts, so I am very grateful to receive this honor from the Chamber.”
Though it’s only been about six months since Bennigan’s returned to the Sunshine State, the Panama City restaurant has already set records for gross sales and for selling the most Monte Cristo sandwiches in a week.
Hollinger also operates the first-of-its-kind “Bennigan’s on the Fly” food truck. Patterned after the brand’s fast casual concept designed for airports, hospitals and other non-traditional locations, the mobile restaurant is capable of serving nearly the entire Bennigan’s menu at virtually any venue.
The indefatigable restaurateur also made another big announcement.
“I’ve purchased the first new Steak and Ale franchise in the nation, and I’m bringing it here to Panama City Beach early next year,” said Hollinger. “We will be building out the chain’s innovative new prototype design, and I have a good feeling that the new look and innovative menu will be the apple of the Chamber’s eye as well!”
The Bennigan’s in the Panama City Mall is located at 2100 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until Midnight Friday and Saturday.
About Bennigan’s
Bennigan’s is a high-energy neighborhood restaurant and tavern that is redefining casual dining. With chef-driven food, innovative drinks and warm, friendly Irish Hospitality, this Legendary brand delivers memorable dining experiences to every guest, every meal, every day. Every member of the team “bleeds green” and demonstrates a 25/8 focus to support its franchise community. The company’s revolutionary comeback has introduced a new generation of Bennigan’s that reflects the brand’s history and pays respect to its rich heritage. Bennigan’s focus on reinvention, flexible prototypes, innovative food, Legendary service and other sales-generating initiatives has resulted in explosive growth both domestically and internationally. For more information, visit www.bennigans.com or call 855-GOT-BENN.
Contact:
Ladd Biro
Champion Management
972-930-9933
lbiro@championmgt.com
www.championmgt.com
