Since the early days of America’s great restaurants it has been the restaurateur – the person with the extended hand, warm smile, great stories, nurturing hospitality and firm handle on how to control the fragile finances of operations that defined an industry so essential to American lifestyle.  The need to gather, break bread, enjoy wonderful meals with family and friends, and feel that special touch of sincere welcome is core to a quality life. Those restaurateurs may share the limelight with well-known chefs, but make no mistake - they are the reason why a restaurant may flourish. One of the most prominent restaurateurs in America is Drew Nieporent – the founder and inspiration behind the Myriad Restaurant Group that has opened nearly 40 restaurants around the world over the past 30 years.  Drew, a graduate of the Cornell Hotel School, is responsible for restaurants that we are all familiar with:  Tribeca Bar and Grill, Montrachet, Batard, Corton, and of course: Nobu.  All of his restaurants are award winning, reflecting the level of excellence that he expects – the New York Times and Michelin Guide agree. Join us for a chat with Drew Nieporent on CAFÉ Talks podcast.  Listen in as he shares his thoughts about the current state of the restaurant industry, the challenges ahead, the role of the restaurateur, and what culinary graduates need in their bag of tricks to find success in their chosen career.