VENICE, Calif. – Local restaurants are the backbone of our communities. Not only do they serve meals and offer a place to gather, but in California, restaurants employ 1.4 million workers.
The coronavirus pandemic has forced many of these local businesses to close their doors for good. According to a National Restaurant Association survey, 89 percent of adults are concerned their community spots won’t survive.
American Gonzo Food Corporation is struggling to keep its restaurants open. Their concept, The Win~dow, known for its burgers, is keeping them afloat Founder of American Gonzo Food Corporation, Paul Hibler never thought that this would be the one concept in his career to generate such buzz.
“The irony is this is one of the most simple things I ever did in my life,” said Hibler.
The Win~dow is the casual take-out burger spot, part of high-end steakhouse American Beauty, in Venice. This physical window kept the restaurant afloat during a struggling start and today remains its backbone, as it is supporting the entire restaurant group through the coronavirus pandemic.
“It’s employing all the people that work in this restaurant. It’s literally helping all the other restaurants in this company. All these things are coming out of this window idea. It’s such a blessing,” said Hibler.
American Beauty remains closed and seems to be acting as storage right now with The Win~dow as the shining star. Hibler doesn’t know where the company would be without it.
“I don’t know what would’ve happened to this restaurant if we didn’t have this window. We would have been in big trouble like a lot of people,” said Hibler.
The hours and menu have expanded with breakfast and salads, now seen alongside the iconic burger, but the price point has not changed. Meals range from $4 to $7, which is low in the Los Angeles market.
Hibler said, “Including everyone is really important especially now.”
He feels The Win~dow is a concept meant for a COVID environment. It is quick, easy, and low contact.
“It’s COVID proof. It’s literally a window with a simple, comforting offering for people. It’s what’s needed right now and the value of it,” said Hibler.
An inside scoop: you may see another window near you. Hibler is taking the success as a sign to open more locations around the city.
“As we look to the future right now, we will need a lot of stuff like this,” said Hibler.