Restaurant business growing in Beaumont

Layoffs, budget cuts and doors closing ... those have been frequent headlines across the country and here in Southeast Texas.

But one segment of our area economy is expanding.

The letter "G" is a staple around the new restaurant Goodfella's in Beaumont.  It not only stands for the name, but co-owner Frankie Randazzo says it stands for good food with its Italian and Greek menu, a good time in its fine dining atmosphere and a good economic boost for Southeast Texas.

Randazzo said, "My grandfather taught me people need food, clothing and shelter, those things aren't going to go away."

That's why Randazzo and his business partner say they opted to expand their restaurant venture, which is creating more than 50 jobs, despite hard times elsewhere.

He said, "The restaurant business is up 4 percent in Texas versus the rest of the country where it's down 2 percent, that's a 6 percent swing.. and a 6 percent can make or break somebody in this business."

Randazzo says the restaurant will also contribute to other local businesses, like food and liquor vendors and artists.

He said, "We wouldn't have it any other way!"

Down the street, Major League Bar and Grill is also gearing up to impact the local economy.

General Manger Scott Fisher said, "I think a great impact that you can bring 150 employees or, 150 more people getting into the workforce that weren't there before and provide a positive place for them to come and work."

But most of all, Fisher hopes to impact customers.

He said, "We're looking forward to bringing the community into it and having a good time with a new concept here in Beaumont."

And whether it be a new concept, or new cuisine, new business is growing the economy in the Golden Triangle.

Goodfella's is scheduled to open next week.  Major League Grill operators are hoping to open the bar and grill after Thanksgiving.