How Paul Mangiamele Brought Iconic Brands Back from the Brink
From The Restaurant Innovator by FSR magazine
March 18, 2026 · 52 min · Season 2 · Episode 6
About this episode
Paul Mangiamele discusses his strategies for reviving iconic restaurant brands and the importance of emotional connections in driving guest frequency.
In this episode, Paul Mangiamele shares the remarkable story of rescuing Bennigan’s from the brink and leading the triumphant return of the iconic Steak and Ale under his Legendary Restaurant Brands umbrella. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Bennigan’s, Paul breaks down his "NEWstalgia" strategy—balancing five decades of brand heritage with modern guest expectations—and explains why emotional connections are the ultimate driver of guest frequency.
People in this episode
Guest: Paul Mangiamele
Topics covered
- restaurant industry
- brand revival
- guest experience
- emotional connections
- business strategy
Keywords
- Bennigan’s
- Steak and Ale
- NEWstalgia
- brand heritage
- guest expectations
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Bennigan’s, Steak and Ale, Legendary Restaurant Brands
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