"Owned by a celebrity chef who has positioned himself as a pandemic-era champion of restaurants, this chain has faced labor criticism despite its public advocacy: when staff at a Pennsylvania location alleged unfair pay and racial bias, the owner merely said the matter was 'resolved.' He has helped promote industry relief efforts (including partnering on a $21.5 million fund that provided $500 grants) and has said back-of-house wages should rise, but he has been vague about specifics such as a $15 minimum wage, unionization, and concrete improvements to safety or benefits. He also opposes tighter regulation of third-party delivery platforms. Critics see a tension between the brand’s populist image and unresolved workplace concerns raised by employees." - Jaya Saxena