Gabriel Stulman, founder of Happy Cooking Hospitality and the restaurateur behind Joseph Leonard, Jeffrey’s Grocery, Fairfax, and Sailor, joins the show to discuss what makes a true neighborhood restaurant – and what it takes to build one that lasts.

Gabriel reflects on his path through the restaurant industry, his philosophy on creating places that make guests feel seen, and the physical and mental demands of running restaurants. He also shares his perspective on changing dining habits, the future of New York City restaurants, and how lengthy permitting and bureaucratic processes drive up the cost of opening. Through it all, Gabriel remains an optimist about restaurants, New York City, and the power of bringing people together.

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0:00 – Intro

1:20 – Happy Cooking Hospitality

2:50 – Gabe’s background in the restaurant industry

8:00 – Building a neighborhood restaurant

19:21 – Gabe’s role at his restaurants

26:06 – The systems Gabe installs at his restaurants

31:55 – What books has Gabe read recently?

38:00 – What Gabe sees as the state of NYC restaurants

46:40 – The challenges of running a restaurant in NYC

53:40 – Closing thoughts

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