Today we’d like to introduce you to David Romano.
David, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in the restaurant industry when my family opened up Fuddruckers and Macaroni Grill. After graduating from the Hotel School at Cornell University I worked my way from a start-up concept in the Northeast to a regional manager for an upscale Steakhouse chain. I later received my MBA from SMU and exited the restaurant industry for what I thought would be a permanent move. I created a consulting group, a training organization, and a recruiting firm and oversaw operations for nearly 15 years. I sold those companies in 2017 and moved back to Dallas to work alongside Phil Romano in developing other concepts, in which The Network Bar, happens to be the first.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The Network Bar has presented a few challenges as we were the first to combine a social club, restaurant, and bar, with an app to allow meaningful connections. Think of the Network Bar as a live Linkedin. The initial concept was designed to attract Millennials but we quickly came to realize that we needed to make a few pivots, like adding a Nick and Sam’s type menu with a formal dining room, because our average age of membership is 42 years old. Since this concept is so unique we find ourselves sticking to the concepts’ core beliefs and constitution but making minor tweaks on a consistent basis to improve our member experience.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Network Bar – what should we know?
The Romano Group has based its success on a pretty simple concept that Phil will shout from the rafters; “MAD”. Make a Difference. That is what the Network Bar is all about. We have made a difference by creating a space that is unique to connect, socialize, and conduct business. The menu is diverse to allow for a light lunch meeting and has some of the same classic steaks and seafood dishes we serve at Nick and Sam’s for those who looking for an elevated dining experience. We host social and speaker events for our members on a weekly basis to increase both their network and knowledge. The members also enjoy our uniquely crafted cocktails, barrel-aged program, as well as the diverse selection of fine wines. The space is great to host corporate events, investor pitches, or an incredible birthday party.
It is amazing how many deals we see get done on a daily basis and the level of connections that happen on the app. By combining the technology, with a space that transports you back to a speakeasy, the Network Bar has carved its unique niche in Dallas market. Beyond the unit located in Trinity Groves, our goal is to expand the Network Bar to other major cities to build the strength of the network and allow members to utilize the space in multiple markets. We have even been approached by numerous international investors interested in overseas expansion. All of the Romano concepts have been creative and customer-centric. The group itself is well diversified in medical, real estate, and hospitality investments such as Eatzi’s, Nick and Sam’s, Coalvines, and Trinity Groves.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
In the hospitality business, your customer becomes your biggest advocate, cheerleaders, and supporters. Constantly receiving feedback, and doing something about it to improve the experience, is the key to success and longevity. There are many books that I have read, too many people to mention that have been great mentors, and countless seminars attended to gain knowledge on how to be a better entrepreneur. However, it doesn’t matter how intelligent or driven you are if your customers don’t get or agree with the product you are offering.
Pricing:
- $1,500 annual memberships
- $5,000 annual corporate memberships
Contact Info:
- Address: 331 Singleton Blvd
Dallas, TX 75212 - Website: www.networkbar.com
- Phone: 214.231.4188
- Email: info@networkbar.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/thenetworkbar/
- Facebook: @TheNetworkbarDallas
- Twitter: www.facebook.com/TheNetworkBarDallas/
- Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/the-network-bar-dallas
- Other: www.linkedin.com/company/the-network-bar/
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