Redstone American Grill Appoints David Goronkin as New CEO

Redstone American Grill, known for its signature steaks, chops, chicken and fresh seafood in a rugged and romantic setting, has four restaurants open, one under construction and several additional locations in various stages of development. The open locations are located in Eden Prairie and Minnetonka, MN, Oakbrook Terrace, IL, and Marlton, NJ.

Dean Vlahos, the Redstone founder who also founded the Champps Restaurant & Bar concept, said, 'I've always made it clear that I am a creator of restaurant concepts, but not a CEO. There's been no hurry for me to bring on a CEO, so I've had the luxury of waiting until I found the right person. David Goronkin is that person. With his vast experience in growing successful restaurant concepts, the time was right to bring David on board and take Redstone American Grill to the next level.'

David Goronkin, 44, has worked in the restaurant industry for more than 20 years. He was most recently the President and CEO of Famous Dave's of America, Inc., a post he took on in 2003. During Mr. Goronkin's tenure at Famous Dave's, the barbeque restaurant company grew from a regional chain of approximately 80 locations in 23 states to the only national full service barbeque chain, with over 160 restaurants open in 35 states and approximately 160 additional restaurants committed to open under area development agreements. Prior to joining Famous Dave's, Mr. Goronkin served for over nine years in a variety of roles at Buffets, Inc., including Chief Operating Officer and member of the Board of Directors.

'Redstone American Grill is a unique and very exciting restaurant concept, and I am honored to join the team and help grow this great brand,' said Goronkin. 'Dean Vlahos is one of the truly innovative entrepreneurs in the restaurant industry, and I am looking forward to helping him transform Redstone American Grill into a nationwide brand. My passion has been to seek out brands that are positioned to be leaders in their respective category, and I believe that Redstone American Grill will be the category leader in upscale casual.'

About Redstone American Grill. Spirited, rugged and romantic best describes Redstone American Grill. Redstone features a wood burning grill, rotisserie and an open exhibition kitchen where their signature steaks, chops, chicken and the freshest seafood available are creatively prepared. A large stone fireplace warmly greats guests as they enter the 'Redstone Experience': fine dining, beautifully designed bar, carefully selected music, first class service and an ambience that's perfect for any occasion. Redstone's four locations include the original restaurant, opened in 1999 in Minnetonka, MN, as well as Eden Prairie, MN, Oakbrook Terrace in suburban Chicago, IL, and Marlton, NJ. Redstone American Grill was chosen as one of Nation's Restaurant News' 'Hot Concepts!' for 2005.


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