Dan McGowan

“To be successful, you need to be truly passionate about food and people.”

Dan McGowan began his Lettuce career as a part-time host and office clerk at Ed Debevic’s. He is now an Executive Partner as well as President of Big Bowl, Big Bowl Chinese Express and L. Woods Tap and Pine Lodge. A recipient of Chicago magazine’s 2010 Green Award, Dan also writes a blog on the Big Bowl website.

What do you like best about your current position?
The ability to talk to our guests and staff members every day. A day doesn’t go by that they don’t give me suggestions on how to make our restaurants better.

What are you currently most excited about?
The ability to teach our staff and guests that you can serve a great, clean product at a reasonable cost AND make money. It does not need to be an either/or proposition.

Who’s been the biggest influence on your career?
Howard Katz, Rich Melman, and Ron Mondel (the owner of an ice cream shop in my childhood neighborhood).

What challenges have you faced in your career?
Too many to name, but every one of them simply made me smarter.

What do you love about the restaurant industry?
That every day is a new challenge. Also, the opportunity to meet so many great guests and staff members over the years.

What advice would you give people who are just starting their restaurant careers?
To be successful, you need to be truly passionate about food and people. Also, be patient. Personal success in this business can take years.

To read more about Dan McGowan, please click here.