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Tune into Menu Feed, a culinary-centered podcast hosted by Senior Editor Patricia Cobe. Menu Feed is produced in collaboration with FSD’s sister publication, Restaurant Business.

How Ford's Garage's innovative menu and vibe draws guests of all ages

Chef Jessica Tomlinson gives comfort-food favorites scratch-made twists, always with an eye toward menu optimization.

Patricia Cobe, Senior Editor

June 8, 2023

This episode of Menu Feed is brought to you by Tock.
Ford’s Garage is a 1920s gas station-themed burger and craft beer restaurant with a unique vibe.

Chef Jessica Tomlinson landed at the 24-location, full-service concept after working in fine dining, baking and pastry, a farm-to-table restaurant and at Bloomin’ Brands.

Jessica Tomlinson
Chef Jessica Tomlinson

In a nostalgic setting filled with vintage vehicles, gas pumps and even a Model T car suspended above the bar, she offers a wide range of classic and creative comfort foods. House-made sauces and condiments, a Burger Hall of Fame and an inventive mac-and-cheese bar differentiate the restaurant.

Tomlinson describes how she focuses on menu optimization and efficiency along with innovation, how she bridges the gap between culinary and the bar, how Ford's Garage's interactive experience and menu draws guests of all ages, and what's next for the brand.

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About the Author

Patricia Cobe

Patricia Cobe

Senior Editor

Pat plans and executes the menu sections of Restaurant Business and FoodService Director, covering food and beverage trends, Menu R&D, profiles of chefs and restaurateurs and Technomic research. She also contributes to the digital content of both RB and FSD and is editor of two weekly e-newsletters, Recipe Report and On the Menu. Pat’s weekly podcast, MenuFeed, covers a wide range of menu topics through interviews with chefs and operators.

Pat came to Winsight from Hearst, where she was an executive editor. She is the co-author of the Mompreneurs series of books as well as two cookbooks. She graduated from Cornell University and earned a Masters in Journalism from Boston University. She is active in several professional organizations, including Les Dames d’Escoffier and the International Foodservice Editorial Council (IFEC), and serves as a judge for the James Beard Media Awards.

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