Dave and Jean Thompson Honored as Iowa's 2023 Restaurateurs of the Year

Dave and Jean Thompson, owners of Urban Restaurant Group, outside their West Des Moines location. (Photo Credit: Urban Restaurant Group)

DES MOINES, Iowa, November 2, 2023 (VSNewsNetwork.com) - The Iowa Restaurant Association has bestowed the honor of Iowa Restaurateurs of the Year to Dave and Jean Thompson of the Urban Restaurant Group. Known for their popular Des Moines metropolitan venues, the Thompsons have shaped the local dining landscape with spots like Urban Grill and District 36 Wine Bar, embodying excellence in culinary innovation and service.

Reacting to the recognition, Dave Thompson said, “We are truly thrilled and humbled to receive the Restaurateurs of the Year award." He elaborated on the significance of the accolade to their team's morale: "This is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, from our talented chefs to our dedicated front-of-house staff. We’re committed to providing each guest with exceptional dining experiences, and this recognition demonstrates that we are on the right path.”

Although they have stepped back from day-to-day operations, the Thompsons' engagement with their business remains fervent, particularly in the area of mentorship. Jean Thompson elaborated on their philosophy: “Empowering our team members, creating partnership models and providing the opportunity to people who want to be in the business is the legacy we hope to leave behind. We ask our team ‘Where do you want to be in two, five and 10 years?’ and if we’re in a position to help, we want to help them open doors and achieve their goals.”

This mentoring spirit is matched by their commitment to fostering a family-oriented atmosphere, not only among staff but also within their customer base. Dave Thompson shared his perspective on remaining active in the restaurants: “I love the energy and rush of a busy restaurant, and I just can’t convince myself to fully retire. The customers that ultimately become great friends and giving young people an opportunity in the industry we love are the most rewarding aspects of my job.”

The Urban Restaurant Group's success is partly due to their diverse and innovative menus, the fine ingredients they source, their notable wine selections, and their reputation for memorable dining experiences. The Thompsons' efforts reflect a blend of casual and elegant dining, an achievement that underscores their leadership in the industry.

For more information on the Urban Restaurant Group or to schedule a reservation, visit www.theurbangrilldm.com/the-urban-restaurant-group/.

Source: Urban Restaurant Group via Newswire