Food-themed television shows have exploded in popularity in recent years. Mrs. FoodHound and I certainly watch a number of them. Our favorites include Bravo's Top Chef and Travel Channel's No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain. We also still catch the occasional Man v. Food and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Last week I was contacted by one of the producers of a new show on Food Network Canada called The Opener with David Adjey, a restaurant consultant and formal personal chef to actor Dan Aykroyd. Adjey has also been a combatant on Iron Chef. The premise of this new show is that Adjey swoops into a city (the show travels throughout North America) and helps rookie restaurateurs with the opening of their first restaurant. Opening - and keeping open - any new business is always tough, particularly restaurants. Throw in a soft economy and I would imagine it's like marching through quick sand.
I was surprised to learn that The Opener hasn't filmed a Chicago show yet. To those of you reading in Tampa, Orlando or Gainesville, they are also looking for ideas for future Florida-based shows.
So if you, or someone you know, is a first-time restaurateur that is a few months away (1-3 months) from opening their restaurant, you might want to get in touch with the show's producers. Your restaurant needs to have at least 30 seats; serve alcohol; not be a chain/franchise; needs to be full-service (e.g. not a deli, bakery, take-out only); willing to share your budget on camera; and provide access to the restaurant for 10 days. This is TV so I'm sure they're looking for folks who are interesting and colorful on camera.
If you fit the profile, or know someone who does, contact Heidi at Frantic Films.