Gregg Horan’s impressive career in the restaurant industry began at Gibsons Restaurant Group, where he started as an assistant manager at the flagship Rush Street location. Over the next three decades, Gregg’s hard work and leadership saw him rise to the role of managing partner and director of operations. Along the way, he became a driving force behind some of Chicago’s and the Nation’s highest-grossing and most iconic dining establishments, including Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, Hugo’s Frog Bar, and Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar, Gibsons Italia, Ralph Lauren’s RL Restaurant, Chicago, Polo Bar New York, and Boat House Orlando. The Greggory—named in his honor—embodies the pinnacle of his experience and passion for the industry. 

In this episode, Philip and Gregg Horan discuss: 

• Building vision before execution
• Prioritizing customer happiness
• Empowering teams through trust
• Turning failure into momentum

Lightbulb Moments:

• A clear vision anchors every great restaurant, guiding design, menu, and service decisions from the start. Collaboration with trusted experts ensures that concept and culture translate into tangible experiences. Vision first, structure second, keeps growth purposeful and cohesive.
• True hospitality begins with the simple goal that every guest leaves happy. Empowering staff to resolve issues immediately turns mistakes into loyalty opportunities. Consistent care transforms satisfaction into repeat visits and a lasting reputation.
• Delegating real responsibility allows employees to take ownership and act decisively. Creating a “franchise of authority” builds confidence, accountability, and pride in service. Trust in the team sustains excellence even when leadership steps away.
• Setbacks serve as fuel for creativity and continuous improvement. Learning from challenges keeps teams sharp and committed to raising standards. The drive to overcome failure becomes the heartbeat of consistent quality and growth.

“Develop leaders and get people to buy in as much as you've bought into your concept and your will to make customers happy.” - Gregg Horan

Connect with Gregg Horan: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-horan/ 

Connect with Philip: 

Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/ 

Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/ 

"X": https://x.com/FornaroLaw 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw 

https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3/ 

Podcast Production by Turnkey Podcast. Thinking of starting a podcast? Get more info at https://turnkeypodcast.com/ or reach out to Doug Sandler directly at Doug@TurnkeyPodcast.com or call 410-340-6861. 

You’re the expert. Your podcast will prove it.