"Chicago’s largest and most successful restaurant empire started out four decades ago as a local neighborhood eatery. Since opening R.J. Grunts in 1971, Lettuce Entertain You owner Rich Melman expanded across the city and then the country with dozens of concepts that span various themes, trends, and price points. From the casual — such as M Burger and Wow Bao — to shuttered fine dining stalwarts like Tru and Everest, the company has left no need unmet in its vast lineup (RPM, Sushi-san). In honor of Melman’s accomplishments, the James Beard Foundation presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015." - Naomi Waxman, Eater Staff