When it comes to cocktails on their menu, he lets the bartender create one for each spirit, but they must be made within 30 seconds. He’s buttoned up on every level from concepting, funding, understanding the brick and motor development to operations. Kelley is so engrained in the business and operations side that if I were to open a new concept, he’d be my first phone call. Origami Ramen Bar takes the title by a landslide. Kelley has many experiences in the on-premise world, including being President of The Light Group, where he dipped his toe into nightlife establishments. Theres really no argument when it comes to naming the best ramen in the Valley.
He had just opened his 106th restaurant at the time of our recording in September 2023! He then jumped over to China Grill Management for nearly 5 years as Director of Development and Operations. He started out at Pusser's Rum Rum and helped grow and open several locations which was the precursor to his career in the restaurant business. Season 1 Episode 38! I’m speaking with Kelley Jones Principal of Kelley Jones Hospitality which focuses on F&B operations for on-premise venues and President and CEO of Alliance, a hospitality management, development and consulting firm for the on-premise world from start to finish.
