Help me name our restaurant something other than "The Restaurant"
December 20, 2006 5:10 PM Subscribe
namemyrestaurantfilter: My husband and I have been planning on owning a restaurant for the last 15 years. Now that we are finally at the stage of getting incorporated, we can't come up with a name.
I always thought we'd find inspiration in the location, but I'm completely blanking. The street name is dull, the town name too common, and local historic names don't work. The building's prior use was as a private club with the town's name. Boring.
We'll be doing American comfort food, some southern influence, with a gourmet slant at dinner. It's a small college town in the Northeast, and we're hoping to showcase a lot of local foods and growers. We'll also do some beer tasting events and catering.
My one inspiration was to take the Latin word for onion (a rip-off of Vidalia), but there is already an Allium in Ottawa, which is very close to us. My husband thinks we should make use of our daughter's name, Claire. Don't ask how we'll explain that to our son. Once upon a time we were going to name it Saffron, which is why I have this user name, but the name no longer fits the cuisine.
Any other suggestions? Or other methods for coming up with a name?
I always thought we'd find inspiration in the location, but I'm completely blanking. The street name is dull, the town name too common, and local historic names don't work. The building's prior use was as a private club with the town's name. Boring.
We'll be doing American comfort food, some southern influence, with a gourmet slant at dinner. It's a small college town in the Northeast, and we're hoping to showcase a lot of local foods and growers. We'll also do some beer tasting events and catering.
My one inspiration was to take the Latin word for onion (a rip-off of Vidalia), but there is already an Allium in Ottawa, which is very close to us. My husband thinks we should make use of our daughter's name, Claire. Don't ask how we'll explain that to our son. Once upon a time we were going to name it Saffron, which is why I have this user name, but the name no longer fits the cuisine.
Any other suggestions? Or other methods for coming up with a name?
I wish you luck. I had a restaurant for 7 years. It was the hardest job, ever. Never a day off. The work never ended. The employees were not trustworthy for the most part. Always money missing from the drawer. I was so glad to get out of that business. Much to hectic for me. Using a daughter's name worked for 'Wendy's.' But you have a son to consider. I think a one-word name does work best.
posted by JayRwv at 5:28 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by JayRwv at 5:28 PM on December 20, 2006
Best answer: There used to be a place near here called the "dew drop inn" which I thought was funny.
What about Claire & [insert son's name here], or use initials?
If you're doing comfort food, maybe something with potato in stead of onion? Home Fries? Mashers?
Comfort.
Clementine.
Hmmm......
posted by dpx.mfx at 5:29 PM on December 20, 2006
What about Claire & [insert son's name here], or use initials?
If you're doing comfort food, maybe something with potato in stead of onion? Home Fries? Mashers?
Comfort.
Clementine.
Hmmm......
posted by dpx.mfx at 5:29 PM on December 20, 2006
Response by poster: dpx.mfx My husband actually worked with a famous bartender/olympian/innkeeper named "Dew Drop" Morgan, so that name is out too.
posted by saffry at 5:37 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by saffry at 5:37 PM on December 20, 2006
n beans
posted by Hands of Manos at 5:39 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by Hands of Manos at 5:39 PM on December 20, 2006
I would call it PIEHOLE, especially if pies are not served.
posted by cmonkey at 5:51 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by cmonkey at 5:51 PM on December 20, 2006
Some time ago I stumbled across Igor, a company who specializes in naming other companies and brands. (it was likely a MeFi link.)
You can read their Naming Guide, a massive 90-page .pdf which I'm sure will give you some ideas.
posted by PercussivePaul at 5:54 PM on December 20, 2006 [2 favorites]
You can read their Naming Guide, a massive 90-page .pdf which I'm sure will give you some ideas.
posted by PercussivePaul at 5:54 PM on December 20, 2006 [2 favorites]
Beauregard's
American, Southern, Aristocracy...it's got it all. (Plus it's just fun to say...try it: Say "Beauregard, come heah boay!" (Too much Bugs Bunny in my past...)
For a more casual place: Momma's. ('Let's head over to Momma's and get a meatloaf and taters!")
Momenem (Southern inside euphamism. For example, a Southerner might say "How's your Mom'an'em?" Translation: "How's your Mom and the rest of your family?" ) Also reminiscent of old, weird Sesame Street...the Monomana muppets (do, do, do dooodoo...monomana...etc.)
Jackson's: I dunno why. I just like it.
I've always wanted to move to Amsterdam and open the Texas Embassy and Bordello. Long neck beers, and long legged blondes. I suppose that won't really work up in your neck of the woods. ;)
posted by dejah420 at 5:54 PM on December 20, 2006
American, Southern, Aristocracy...it's got it all. (Plus it's just fun to say...try it: Say "Beauregard, come heah boay!" (Too much Bugs Bunny in my past...)
For a more casual place: Momma's. ('Let's head over to Momma's and get a meatloaf and taters!")
Momenem (Southern inside euphamism. For example, a Southerner might say "How's your Mom'an'em?" Translation: "How's your Mom and the rest of your family?" ) Also reminiscent of old, weird Sesame Street...the Monomana muppets (do, do, do dooodoo...monomana...etc.)
Jackson's: I dunno why. I just like it.
I've always wanted to move to Amsterdam and open the Texas Embassy and Bordello. Long neck beers, and long legged blondes. I suppose that won't really work up in your neck of the woods. ;)
posted by dejah420 at 5:54 PM on December 20, 2006
Diner
Truck Stop Blues
C[son's initial]'s
Spoon
The Clean Spoon
Mom's (Mum's)
Mum's The Word
Not Your Mum's Meatloaf
Leftunders
Home ("Hey honey, let's go Home for dinner..." -- the marketing writes itself)
Taters
The Local
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 5:55 PM on December 20, 2006
Truck Stop Blues
C[son's initial]'s
Spoon
The Clean Spoon
Mom's (Mum's)
Mum's The Word
Not Your Mum's Meatloaf
Leftunders
Home ("Hey honey, let's go Home for dinner..." -- the marketing writes itself)
Taters
The Local
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 5:55 PM on December 20, 2006
dejah420 writes "Also reminiscent of old, weird Sesame Street...the Monomana muppets (do, do, do dooodoo...monomana...etc.)"
Actually that's The Muppet Show
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 5:56 PM on December 20, 2006
Actually that's The Muppet Show
posted by dirtynumbangelboy at 5:56 PM on December 20, 2006
I always wanted to open a restaurant called Lagniappe
posted by keep it tight at 5:57 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by keep it tight at 5:57 PM on December 20, 2006
Tobacco Barn
Golden House
Southern Skillet
Mama's Cookin' Shack
Smokehaus
If it's southern, it's smoke-related.
posted by infinitewindow at 5:58 PM on December 20, 2006
Golden House
Southern Skillet
Mama's Cookin' Shack
Smokehaus
If it's southern, it's smoke-related.
posted by infinitewindow at 5:58 PM on December 20, 2006
Claire sounds good. If it's a major problem just put your son's name after it.
posted by fire&wings at 6:05 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by fire&wings at 6:05 PM on December 20, 2006
Sloppy Jimmy's All-You-Can-Swallow Nutrient Shack
Foooood
Piehole
Frankly, My Dear
Better Than Your Mom
Meatspace
Seriously, if in doubt, just go with [your surname]'s. Neutral, yes, but there's a reason so many restaurants go with that option - it makes it damn easy for people to remember what that place was called that they had that great food, and tell others. Unless your surname's Óðinsdóttir. Which it isn't.
To over-generalise: Nobody ever decided to avoid a restaurant because its name didn't thrill them. Plenty of people avoid restaurants that sound pretentious or trying-too-hard trendy or just weird.
posted by flashboy at 6:10 PM on December 20, 2006
Foooood
Piehole
Frankly, My Dear
Better Than Your Mom
Meatspace
Seriously, if in doubt, just go with [your surname]'s. Neutral, yes, but there's a reason so many restaurants go with that option - it makes it damn easy for people to remember what that place was called that they had that great food, and tell others. Unless your surname's Óðinsdóttir. Which it isn't.
To over-generalise: Nobody ever decided to avoid a restaurant because its name didn't thrill them. Plenty of people avoid restaurants that sound pretentious or trying-too-hard trendy or just weird.
posted by flashboy at 6:10 PM on December 20, 2006
Claire's Kitchen?
posted by Zosia Blue at 6:21 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by Zosia Blue at 6:21 PM on December 20, 2006
You may be thinking too much about it. Whatever your name is, it's what you do that will define it.
For instance, we have a local burger joint called "B&D Burgers". Nothing fancy, but they make great burgers (all named of local Savannah stuff), with various toppings (Fried egg, Blue cheese crumbles etc.).
The name comes from the initials of names of his two boys. It's rolls nicely off the tongue, sounds like local and tells what they specialize in.
You don't say what your son's name is, so
Pilgrims
13 Colonies
Plymouth Rock
Thanksgiving
Northern Kitchen
Gourmet Comfort
Built for Comfort
Nothern Comfort
East of the Mississippi
38th Parallel (or whatever your lattidue or longitude coordinates are)
The Foyer
The Porch
Georgia Peach
Autumn Comfort
Harvest Moon
Hopping John's
Po boy
The Dive
Easy Now
Southern Influence
Gourmet Slant
Dad's Kitchen (everyone does mom's)
Dusk
Junebug
Pop's
American Comfort
The Bill of Rights
The Axe and the Cherry Tree
Johnny Appleseed's
South Carolina
Sweet Carolina's
On preview:
Nobody ever decided to avoid a restaurant because its name didn't thrill them.
I will NEVER go into the local restaurant named "Squart and Gobble"
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 6:21 PM on December 20, 2006 [1 favorite]
For instance, we have a local burger joint called "B&D Burgers". Nothing fancy, but they make great burgers (all named of local Savannah stuff), with various toppings (Fried egg, Blue cheese crumbles etc.).
The name comes from the initials of names of his two boys. It's rolls nicely off the tongue, sounds like local and tells what they specialize in.
You don't say what your son's name is, so
Pilgrims
13 Colonies
Plymouth Rock
Thanksgiving
Northern Kitchen
Gourmet Comfort
Built for Comfort
Nothern Comfort
East of the Mississippi
38th Parallel (or whatever your lattidue or longitude coordinates are)
The Foyer
The Porch
Georgia Peach
Autumn Comfort
Harvest Moon
Hopping John's
Po boy
The Dive
Easy Now
Southern Influence
Gourmet Slant
Dad's Kitchen (everyone does mom's)
Dusk
Junebug
Pop's
American Comfort
The Bill of Rights
The Axe and the Cherry Tree
Johnny Appleseed's
South Carolina
Sweet Carolina's
On preview:
Nobody ever decided to avoid a restaurant because its name didn't thrill them.
I will NEVER go into the local restaurant named "Squart and Gobble"
posted by Brandon Blatcher at 6:21 PM on December 20, 2006 [1 favorite]
Beware Food, Home, Bite etc. They're impossible to google for and find information about online. (Okay, SF has a Home, and it's not impossible, but still...Bite totally was.)
I like Claire. It's a pretty, simple name. I'd probably want to eat at a Claire('s).
(on preview, I've lived right near a Squat and Gobble for 2 years and have avoided it 100%, about 80% for the name alone like Brandon Blatcher.)
posted by birdie birdington at 6:26 PM on December 20, 2006
I like Claire. It's a pretty, simple name. I'd probably want to eat at a Claire('s).
(on preview, I've lived right near a Squat and Gobble for 2 years and have avoided it 100%, about 80% for the name alone like Brandon Blatcher.)
posted by birdie birdington at 6:26 PM on December 20, 2006
• Le Cou Rouge (" the red neck" in french)
• File (fee-lay, as in the gumbo thickener. I'm too lazy to hunt for the key-combo for the diacritical mark over the "e" at the moment)
• Okra (also a gumbo thickener, and a quintessential southern food in it's own right.)
• Sphagnum Esplanade
• Fixins'
• Azalea
• Cypress
posted by ab3 at 6:34 PM on December 20, 2006
• File (fee-lay, as in the gumbo thickener. I'm too lazy to hunt for the key-combo for the diacritical mark over the "e" at the moment)
• Okra (also a gumbo thickener, and a quintessential southern food in it's own right.)
• Sphagnum Esplanade
• Fixins'
• Azalea
• Cypress
posted by ab3 at 6:34 PM on December 20, 2006
(This is probably awful.)
For some reason the Allium/gourmet homestyle thing made me think of: CHIVES.
I don't know why. But I'd totally eat somewhere called Chives. (Of course, I live in Los Angeles, so my pretentiousness meter is calibrated strangely.)
posted by thehmsbeagle at 6:37 PM on December 20, 2006
For some reason the Allium/gourmet homestyle thing made me think of: CHIVES.
I don't know why. But I'd totally eat somewhere called Chives. (Of course, I live in Los Angeles, so my pretentiousness meter is calibrated strangely.)
posted by thehmsbeagle at 6:37 PM on December 20, 2006
"Chives by Jives" would work nicely.
posted by megatherium at 6:39 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by megatherium at 6:39 PM on December 20, 2006
We'll be doing American comfort food, some southern influence, with a gourmet slant at dinner. It's a small college town in the Northeast, and we're hoping to showcase a lot of local foods and growers. We'll also do some beer tasting events and catering.
How about 'Heirloom Varieties' ?
posted by jamjam at 6:49 PM on December 20, 2006
How about 'Heirloom Varieties' ?
posted by jamjam at 6:49 PM on December 20, 2006
Response by poster: Now that I've posted this we've been talking and are thinking that our son's first two initials (thanks dpx) N.A and C.H. for Claire could be pronounced like Natchez. (not only Southern, but we were on the steamboat on our honeymoon) But how to spell it.
Nach's
Natch's ( if we do this, the signage might be Na+ch's)
Natch'z
Natchez
Or is the whole idea horrible.
posted by saffry at 7:01 PM on December 20, 2006
Nach's
Natch's ( if we do this, the signage might be Na+ch's)
Natch'z
Natchez
Or is the whole idea horrible.
posted by saffry at 7:01 PM on December 20, 2006
Claire's Carb Kingdom
Buckets of Butter
The Don't Ask About Our Son Diner
The Kinked Colon
Mother Hubbards
The Bloated Bairn
Seriously. You need to throw us some nouns. Give us the street, town, architectural style, decor, something.
posted by SMELLSLIKEFUN at 7:03 PM on December 20, 2006
Buckets of Butter
The Don't Ask About Our Son Diner
The Kinked Colon
Mother Hubbards
The Bloated Bairn
Seriously. You need to throw us some nouns. Give us the street, town, architectural style, decor, something.
posted by SMELLSLIKEFUN at 7:03 PM on December 20, 2006
Chives makes me think of hives. I don't want hives. I'm probably the only person who would make that connection though.
Sphagnum Esplanade is totally awesome - sounds like a celebrity baby name to me.
I love Momenem!
Can we come? Will there be some kind of Metafilter member discount at this restaurant of yours?
posted by srah at 7:07 PM on December 20, 2006
Sphagnum Esplanade is totally awesome - sounds like a celebrity baby name to me.
I love Momenem!
Can we come? Will there be some kind of Metafilter member discount at this restaurant of yours?
posted by srah at 7:07 PM on December 20, 2006
I will NEVER go into the local restaurant named "Squart and Gobble"
That was my point - neutral names don't put people off, trying-too-hard names (of all varieties) do. Unless you're avoiding the Squat and Gobble because you find the name too dull, in which case I stand corrected.
posted by flashboy at 7:11 PM on December 20, 2006
That was my point - neutral names don't put people off, trying-too-hard names (of all varieties) do. Unless you're avoiding the Squat and Gobble because you find the name too dull, in which case I stand corrected.
posted by flashboy at 7:11 PM on December 20, 2006
I like Natchez. I definitely wouldn't get the connection with any of the other three spellings.
posted by PercussivePaul at 7:12 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by PercussivePaul at 7:12 PM on December 20, 2006
Natchez is great -- if such a place existed near me I'd check it out in a heartbeat. Or you could use the latter half and call it The Trace.
But whatever you do, don't name it Natchitoches. People will think it's pronounced nasty-toe-cheese.
posted by brina at 7:18 PM on December 20, 2006
But whatever you do, don't name it Natchitoches. People will think it's pronounced nasty-toe-cheese.
posted by brina at 7:18 PM on December 20, 2006
there is a website called 'wordboard naming forums'. google it- I've had much (free) success there.
good luck!
posted by Izzmeister at 7:18 PM on December 20, 2006
good luck!
posted by Izzmeister at 7:18 PM on December 20, 2006
We'll be doing American comfort food, some southern influence, with a gourmet slant at dinner.
Le Crepe
Pearl's
Peach House
Magnolia
Charlotte's
Matilda's
Betsy Ross
The Red Clover
Mayflower
Mandoline or Mandolin
I think Claire's is a great name.
Good luck and Congrats!
posted by LoriFLA at 7:19 PM on December 20, 2006
Le Crepe
Pearl's
Peach House
Magnolia
Charlotte's
Matilda's
Betsy Ross
The Red Clover
Mayflower
Mandoline or Mandolin
I think Claire's is a great name.
Good luck and Congrats!
posted by LoriFLA at 7:19 PM on December 20, 2006
I like the Natchez idea a lot! But stick with the pure form, I think. First of all, using z as a possessive drives me crazy (but I'm weird).
I liked the NA+CH's idea, but I'd be afraid people will wonder if that's NA "plus" CH's, or NA "and" CH's, or NATCH's or what.
Only downside of the original spelling is people might think they're smarter than they are and pronounce it "not-shay" or think you serve French food (like Nat Chez, if Chez were the French word one sees in the stereotypical restaurant). But I like it nonetheless.
Please let us know when you do decide what to go with!
posted by SuperNova at 7:20 PM on December 20, 2006
I liked the NA+CH's idea, but I'd be afraid people will wonder if that's NA "plus" CH's, or NA "and" CH's, or NATCH's or what.
Only downside of the original spelling is people might think they're smarter than they are and pronounce it "not-shay" or think you serve French food (like Nat Chez, if Chez were the French word one sees in the stereotypical restaurant). But I like it nonetheless.
Please let us know when you do decide what to go with!
posted by SuperNova at 7:20 PM on December 20, 2006
Heads up: there's a Natchez Restaurant in New York City. Looks like there's one in Dallas too. Not sure if it matters.
posted by PercussivePaul at 7:25 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by PercussivePaul at 7:25 PM on December 20, 2006
Nach's is great. As is Natchez. If you go for NA+CH, drop the apostrophe. It's too damn cutesy to over-punctuate. Everything else is over-wraught and under-connected.
All are simply, unique, and easy to register online. Seriously, those are good names for a restaurant. Nearly everything else in this thread is so retarded that it's embarrassing to see.
posted by klangklangston at 7:28 PM on December 20, 2006
All are simply, unique, and easy to register online. Seriously, those are good names for a restaurant. Nearly everything else in this thread is so retarded that it's embarrassing to see.
posted by klangklangston at 7:28 PM on December 20, 2006
And all of 'em should be pronounced "Na-chez" (with the American phonemes).
posted by klangklangston at 7:30 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by klangklangston at 7:30 PM on December 20, 2006
How about combining your name and your husband's name.
Or your daughter's name with your son's name.
Or you could hold a contest and offer free Sunday brunch every year to the person who comes up with the right name -- (they'll usually bring 5-10 people with them, so don't worry about the cost.)
posted by jason's_planet at 7:36 PM on December 20, 2006
Or your daughter's name with your son's name.
Or you could hold a contest and offer free Sunday brunch every year to the person who comes up with the right name -- (they'll usually bring 5-10 people with them, so don't worry about the cost.)
posted by jason's_planet at 7:36 PM on December 20, 2006
Magnolia - darn, beat by LoriFLA on preview! So I second this one.
Southern Belle's
Sweet Home
Live Oak
Acadia
Antebellum
Scarlett's
posted by Quietgal at 7:39 PM on December 20, 2006
Southern Belle's
Sweet Home
Live Oak
Acadia
Antebellum
Scarlett's
posted by Quietgal at 7:39 PM on December 20, 2006
Best answer: I'd stay away from all the overly homey-sounding names. They're too precious for those who know that you're more gourmet, and confusing to those who don't (who will think you're a diner.)
You can go rustic (back to the ingredients) if you make it also sound like it could be an English pub. Like Spotted Pig.
There are a lot of restos here in Philly named after the baby. I goodnaturedly rolled my eyes a little the fourth time I heard this explanation, but the slightly unusual girl's names do make good restaurant names and it's a guaranteed good line in an interview.
On this principle, Natchez is good. It's easy to say and see and you've got a cute story. But google, google, google. It's not terrible if there's a restaurant in NYC with the same name, but you do need to be prepared.
Avoid weird punctuation. (Like Natch'z or NA+CH's) Everyone will get it wrong, editors will "fix" it, etc. Nix non-possessive possessives. (Who's Natch? You will hate this question in two days.)
What else can you use as a jumping-off point that's personal? Favorite flower, book, song, food memory, childhood memory, inspiration...anything. Do some free associating.
posted by desuetude at 8:00 PM on December 20, 2006
You can go rustic (back to the ingredients) if you make it also sound like it could be an English pub. Like Spotted Pig.
There are a lot of restos here in Philly named after the baby. I goodnaturedly rolled my eyes a little the fourth time I heard this explanation, but the slightly unusual girl's names do make good restaurant names and it's a guaranteed good line in an interview.
On this principle, Natchez is good. It's easy to say and see and you've got a cute story. But google, google, google. It's not terrible if there's a restaurant in NYC with the same name, but you do need to be prepared.
Avoid weird punctuation. (Like Natch'z or NA+CH's) Everyone will get it wrong, editors will "fix" it, etc. Nix non-possessive possessives. (Who's Natch? You will hate this question in two days.)
What else can you use as a jumping-off point that's personal? Favorite flower, book, song, food memory, childhood memory, inspiration...anything. Do some free associating.
posted by desuetude at 8:00 PM on December 20, 2006
I'm going to third Magnolia. I dislike Natchez, because it makes me think of Nachos, which doesn't fit your menu at all (unless southern includes mexican?).
I think single name restaurants like Claire's work really well. Two of my favourite restaurants here in LA are named like that - Chloe and Josie. Chloe is gone now and I miss it terribly *sniff*
posted by Joh at 8:07 PM on December 20, 2006
I think single name restaurants like Claire's work really well. Two of my favourite restaurants here in LA are named like that - Chloe and Josie. Chloe is gone now and I miss it terribly *sniff*
posted by Joh at 8:07 PM on December 20, 2006
I really like Nach's. It is unusual but not obviously contrived like Natchez. There is a story behind it and I like that I don't immediately know how to pronounce it. I would be easy to find in the phone book if I had only heard it.
posted by pointilist at 8:11 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by pointilist at 8:11 PM on December 20, 2006
Alligator Alley
The Riverboat
(seconding) Live Oak
posted by jet_silver at 8:20 PM on December 20, 2006
The Riverboat
(seconding) Live Oak
posted by jet_silver at 8:20 PM on December 20, 2006
Ruby's Roadhouse
La Bouchere (Butcher's wife)
Maxwell's Plum
Foodies
Camellia Grill
Georgie Porgie's
Cypress Knee Cafe
Palmetto's (Type of palm native to south)
Parasol's
Some great places that were around in New Orleans.
posted by JujuB at 8:44 PM on December 20, 2006
La Bouchere (Butcher's wife)
Maxwell's Plum
Foodies
Camellia Grill
Georgie Porgie's
Cypress Knee Cafe
Palmetto's (Type of palm native to south)
Parasol's
Some great places that were around in New Orleans.
posted by JujuB at 8:44 PM on December 20, 2006
If I owned a restaurant, which I likely never will, I would call it WOW. It's memorable, it would describe the food, it looks the same on the inside and outside of the window, and it's MOM (as in home cooking) upside-down.
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 9:12 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 9:12 PM on December 20, 2006
The Veranda
Katrina's
Clarabelle's
Nutbush City Limits
posted by Pollomacho at 9:13 PM on December 20, 2006
Katrina's
Clarabelle's
Nutbush City Limits
posted by Pollomacho at 9:13 PM on December 20, 2006
Ooh how about Brownie's?
posted by Pollomacho at 9:14 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by Pollomacho at 9:14 PM on December 20, 2006
Hey, does the best answerer get a free meal or what?
posted by Pollomacho at 9:17 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by Pollomacho at 9:17 PM on December 20, 2006
"Some great places that were around in New Orleans."
?????
You speak as if NOLA is a thing of the past, and I assure you IT IS NOT... The rumors of our demise have been greatly (okay, maybe not greatly, but still) exaggerated.
I'll have you know that Parasol's has been back since not long after the hurricane, and that Camillia Grill is not only about to re-open, but likely to expand to other cities as well. Ruby's Roadhouse is still kickin' on the Northshore, and I'm not even sure they ever closed... I don't know about the rest for sure, but I'm guessing most of them are still around.
except, of course, Foodies, which was doomed long before Katrina. heh...silly Brennans.
posted by ab3 at 9:27 PM on December 20, 2006
?????
You speak as if NOLA is a thing of the past, and I assure you IT IS NOT... The rumors of our demise have been greatly (okay, maybe not greatly, but still) exaggerated.
I'll have you know that Parasol's has been back since not long after the hurricane, and that Camillia Grill is not only about to re-open, but likely to expand to other cities as well. Ruby's Roadhouse is still kickin' on the Northshore, and I'm not even sure they ever closed... I don't know about the rest for sure, but I'm guessing most of them are still around.
except, of course, Foodies, which was doomed long before Katrina. heh...silly Brennans.
posted by ab3 at 9:27 PM on December 20, 2006
My sister-in-law's Southern-born grandmother was named Melba. I think I'd eat at a restaurant named Melba's.
posted by Help, I can't stop talking! at 9:38 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by Help, I can't stop talking! at 9:38 PM on December 20, 2006
You're husband is right on, ' C l a i r e ' is perfect.
And, Birdie is correct when she says Claire is pretty and simple; and it has meaning. (your son will get over it)
So that this is not just a me too response, I'll offer the name ' F i r e f l y '. Which sounds summery, Southern and memorable.
posted by artdrectr at 9:43 PM on December 20, 2006
And, Birdie is correct when she says Claire is pretty and simple; and it has meaning. (your son will get over it)
So that this is not just a me too response, I'll offer the name ' F i r e f l y '. Which sounds summery, Southern and memorable.
posted by artdrectr at 9:43 PM on December 20, 2006
If you like Claire but don't want to use your daughter's name, why don't you use what would have been your 2nd choice baby name (and then hope that you don't have another kid!)
posted by folara at 10:09 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by folara at 10:09 PM on December 20, 2006
ab3 - Born and raised in NO. Living in my FEMA trailer, rebuilding my house from ground up (in the air about 10 ft higher) :)
posted by JujuB at 10:26 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by JujuB at 10:26 PM on December 20, 2006
If it helps any, my father named one of his businesses after me and I don't think my brother was ever bothered by it. I think "Claire" is a perfect name for the type of restaurant you describe.
posted by LadyBonita at 10:38 PM on December 20, 2006
posted by LadyBonita at 10:38 PM on December 20, 2006
The southern restaurant in town here is called Tupelo Junction, and I happen to think that's a fantastic name. Of course, that's partially because it reminds me of the Van Morrison song, "Tupelo Honey."
Not a direct answer (unless you want to rip them off), but maybe it'll help?
posted by JMOZ at 11:12 PM on December 20, 2006
Not a direct answer (unless you want to rip them off), but maybe it'll help?
posted by JMOZ at 11:12 PM on December 20, 2006
There's a chain of restaurants in Seattle called "Claire's Pantry." Great name. Dragged me right in for a comfy breakfast. Shame about the food and the service. The name worked like gang-busters, though. Maybe Claire d'Lune if you want to make it snootier for the gourmet crowd.
One of my favorite breakfast places opened without a name. They put out a sandwich board saying, "Cafe Open." Months later, they polled the regulars to name the place, and it wound up being "Cafe Open."
posted by FYKshun at 11:28 PM on December 20, 2006
One of my favorite breakfast places opened without a name. They put out a sandwich board saying, "Cafe Open." Months later, they polled the regulars to name the place, and it wound up being "Cafe Open."
posted by FYKshun at 11:28 PM on December 20, 2006
Natchez would suggest mexican/south western food to me...
(And depending on what part of the North east you're in [for instance some parts of long island], that assocation could land you smack dab in the middle of local/national politics too)
posted by Jahaza at 11:38 PM on December 20, 2006
(And depending on what part of the North east you're in [for instance some parts of long island], that assocation could land you smack dab in the middle of local/national politics too)
posted by Jahaza at 11:38 PM on December 20, 2006
Oh and IANAL, but I don't think you neccesarily have to do business under the incorporated name, that's why you see lots of legal papers that say something like:
324 4th Ave, LLC d/b/a Smith's Bar
posted by Jahaza at 11:40 PM on December 20, 2006
324 4th Ave, LLC d/b/a Smith's Bar
posted by Jahaza at 11:40 PM on December 20, 2006
The Magnolia Grill is a famous Southern restaurant.
Dogwood Diner?
Match
Matchbox Grill
Table
posted by barometer at 11:51 PM on December 20, 2006
Dogwood Diner?
Match
Matchbox Grill
Table
posted by barometer at 11:51 PM on December 20, 2006
i like NATCHEZ, but only if it's spelled that way.
...because i think NA + CH is too close to Na + CH, which would be SALT + CARBON HYDROXIDE or something, and make me think of grade 11 chemistry, which was decidedly undelicious.
i like CLAIRE'S too.
SHILOH is kinda nice- i always liked that word- it might be a bit too trendy with the brangelina and all though.
simple names are best. easy to read, easy to pronounce. you don't need to be descriptive with a name choice, people will always make their own associations anyway, and it's good to be a little mysterious. a place whose name is overly descriptive always sounds boring to me.
i think my favourite is claire's. tell your son that if he's good santa will bring him his own restaurant next year.
good luck!
posted by twistofrhyme at 12:37 AM on December 21, 2006
...because i think NA + CH is too close to Na + CH, which would be SALT + CARBON HYDROXIDE or something, and make me think of grade 11 chemistry, which was decidedly undelicious.
i like CLAIRE'S too.
SHILOH is kinda nice- i always liked that word- it might be a bit too trendy with the brangelina and all though.
simple names are best. easy to read, easy to pronounce. you don't need to be descriptive with a name choice, people will always make their own associations anyway, and it's good to be a little mysterious. a place whose name is overly descriptive always sounds boring to me.
i think my favourite is claire's. tell your son that if he's good santa will bring him his own restaurant next year.
good luck!
posted by twistofrhyme at 12:37 AM on December 21, 2006
Ahem- nothing to do with your topic, but I'm wondering from your question if you're situated in the same "small, northeast college town", "close to Ottawa" that I went to college in.
As for restaurant name, I'm going with Claire's. A person's name seems to fit with the type of cuisine you describe, but Claire is a somewhat sophisticated name, which fits with your "gourmet slant at dinner" thing. I'm sure your son wouldn't mind if you explained it to him.
posted by katyggls at 1:10 AM on December 21, 2006
As for restaurant name, I'm going with Claire's. A person's name seems to fit with the type of cuisine you describe, but Claire is a somewhat sophisticated name, which fits with your "gourmet slant at dinner" thing. I'm sure your son wouldn't mind if you explained it to him.
posted by katyggls at 1:10 AM on December 21, 2006
You know, Clairee was a character in Steel Magnolias... That's just a little more southern and down-home sounding. I like that. Or let's see.. Doilies? That's cute.
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 1:32 AM on December 21, 2006
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 1:32 AM on December 21, 2006
There is an Audrey Claire in Philadelphia. Girl's names are cute but overdone. Maybe living in Philadelphia has made me jaded about naming conventions.
What will be your restaurant's signature dish?
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 4:01 AM on December 21, 2006
What will be your restaurant's signature dish?
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 4:01 AM on December 21, 2006
I love "Claire", too. Elegant, friendly, warm, easy to remember, one word. It's great.
posted by taz at 4:01 AM on December 21, 2006
posted by taz at 4:01 AM on December 21, 2006
I can definitely see myself saying "Let's get dinner at Claire's" to my wife.
We often go to a place called "Artichokes", along the lines of your suggestion of Allium. Even though you are cooking American, a foreign vegetable name might work? I've always liked Corgettes or Aubergine.
posted by genefinder at 4:39 AM on December 21, 2006
We often go to a place called "Artichokes", along the lines of your suggestion of Allium. Even though you are cooking American, a foreign vegetable name might work? I've always liked Corgettes or Aubergine.
posted by genefinder at 4:39 AM on December 21, 2006
mrleec, there's a Nacho Mama's here in Richmond. Impressive margarita menu.
There's also a Comfort here, too. Mmm, fried green tomatoes.
How about calling it Open?
posted by emelenjr at 5:40 AM on December 21, 2006
There's also a Comfort here, too. Mmm, fried green tomatoes.
How about calling it Open?
posted by emelenjr at 5:40 AM on December 21, 2006
Good Food
Good Taste
Good & Plenty
Soul Chow
Good 4 U
posted by dbiedny at 6:41 AM on December 21, 2006
Good Taste
Good & Plenty
Soul Chow
Good 4 U
posted by dbiedny at 6:41 AM on December 21, 2006
Southern Comfort
Parasol
Le Charme
Haute Cuisine
Oui (which I kind of love since it's so simple)
Très bon
le cochon délicieux (the delicious pig - but that's too long?)
I really liked whoever saiid Le Cou Rouge
posted by heartquake at 6:47 AM on December 21, 2006
Parasol
Le Charme
Haute Cuisine
Oui (which I kind of love since it's so simple)
Très bon
le cochon délicieux (the delicious pig - but that's too long?)
I really liked whoever saiid Le Cou Rouge
posted by heartquake at 6:47 AM on December 21, 2006
128thing "Claire" just to tip it in that direction. And we're all invited to opening night, right?
posted by empyrean at 6:47 AM on December 21, 2006
posted by empyrean at 6:47 AM on December 21, 2006
Dee Lish Diner (or D. Lish)
South By North
Foodies
Eat Up
Yummy's
posted by dbiedny at 6:52 AM on December 21, 2006
South By North
Foodies
Eat Up
Yummy's
posted by dbiedny at 6:52 AM on December 21, 2006
I will NEVER go into the local restaurant named "Squart and Gobble"
I love the Squat and Gobble in San Francisco! Omelets in the morning and crepes at night. Great homefries too! Yum.
As to the point of the thread, I think "Claire" (no apostrophe) is good. I also came up with "You're Home"
Good luck!
posted by terrapin at 6:53 AM on December 21, 2006
I love the Squat and Gobble in San Francisco! Omelets in the morning and crepes at night. Great homefries too! Yum.
As to the point of the thread, I think "Claire" (no apostrophe) is good. I also came up with "You're Home"
Good luck!
posted by terrapin at 6:53 AM on December 21, 2006
I don't like any of the Natchez variations. Like others have said, it evokes tex mex for me. And also, I think the story is too cutesy.
I like Claire's but don't love it. I agree I'm not totally keen on the naming restaurants after one's child trend. But it is a nice name and seems appropriate for your restaurant.
I really like Lune, actually. Maybe Clair de Lune or Claire de Lune. But I like Lune all by itself.
peristalsis??? No.
I like Firefly. There is one in DC if that matters to you, though. I like Magnolia too. I kind of like the Northern Comfort, Northern Kitchen idea too.
posted by Amizu at 7:03 AM on December 21, 2006
I like Claire's but don't love it. I agree I'm not totally keen on the naming restaurants after one's child trend. But it is a nice name and seems appropriate for your restaurant.
I really like Lune, actually. Maybe Clair de Lune or Claire de Lune. But I like Lune all by itself.
peristalsis??? No.
I like Firefly. There is one in DC if that matters to you, though. I like Magnolia too. I kind of like the Northern Comfort, Northern Kitchen idea too.
posted by Amizu at 7:03 AM on December 21, 2006
(I didn't read all the answers, so forgive me if this has been touched on. Or don't forgive me, I don't care.)
If you have an unusual or memorable last name, that can sometimes be good, for a couple reasons.
One is that it could sound less generic than other names.
The other is that it can be very good for publicity. If you get the local paper or TV news out to cover your opening, any quotes that mention your name automatically reinforce the name of the restuarant. So the "restaurant name" is repeated throughout any news article.
Along the same lines: call and/or write your local paper, and your TV and radio news. Offer yourself as an "expert" in your line of food, or the restaurant business, or even for articles related to achieving your goals in life. Keep reminding them you are around with press releases, and media kits. When a local story runs about one of these topics, they could very well give you a call to get your opinion and a few quotes. More publicity for you! Don't be shy about this, it's how everyone does does it.
Good luck!
posted by The Deej at 7:06 AM on December 21, 2006
If you have an unusual or memorable last name, that can sometimes be good, for a couple reasons.
One is that it could sound less generic than other names.
The other is that it can be very good for publicity. If you get the local paper or TV news out to cover your opening, any quotes that mention your name automatically reinforce the name of the restuarant. So the "restaurant name" is repeated throughout any news article.
Along the same lines: call and/or write your local paper, and your TV and radio news. Offer yourself as an "expert" in your line of food, or the restaurant business, or even for articles related to achieving your goals in life. Keep reminding them you are around with press releases, and media kits. When a local story runs about one of these topics, they could very well give you a call to get your opinion and a few quotes. More publicity for you! Don't be shy about this, it's how everyone does does it.
Good luck!
posted by The Deej at 7:06 AM on December 21, 2006
Yeah, not so excited about Natchez. Claire is ok. But I don't understand why people name restaurants after their kids. That's just me, though. I'd go for Good Food Cafe or Good Food Grill if it's down-homey. The gourmet slant at night throws me off a bit.
What about something that evokes a feeling of "we're eating at grandma's"-- like Bertha's, Mamie's, Gertrude's, Helen's, something like that with a name from yesteryear? When you eat at Grandma's, the food is always homecooked and comforting, but dinner is more formal and you might get your elbows poked with a fork if they're on the table.
posted by orangemiles at 9:50 AM on December 21, 2006
What about something that evokes a feeling of "we're eating at grandma's"-- like Bertha's, Mamie's, Gertrude's, Helen's, something like that with a name from yesteryear? When you eat at Grandma's, the food is always homecooked and comforting, but dinner is more formal and you might get your elbows poked with a fork if they're on the table.
posted by orangemiles at 9:50 AM on December 21, 2006
Best answer: My $0.02?
Stick with Natch. No possesive plural, no funky Zs. YOU know that it's really NA + CH, and you can explain that to people when you want, if you want.
Otherwise... 'Natch' is also the slang/colloquialism for "naturally", which sounds like a perfectly good adjective for a restaurant that's going to feature the local produce and other regional foodstuffs.
"Hey, where are we gonna go for dinner?"
"Let's go to Natch."
"Good choice!"
"Natch."
posted by Adelwolf at 9:53 AM on December 21, 2006
Stick with Natch. No possesive plural, no funky Zs. YOU know that it's really NA + CH, and you can explain that to people when you want, if you want.
Otherwise... 'Natch' is also the slang/colloquialism for "naturally", which sounds like a perfectly good adjective for a restaurant that's going to feature the local produce and other regional foodstuffs.
"Hey, where are we gonna go for dinner?"
"Let's go to Natch."
"Good choice!"
"Natch."
posted by Adelwolf at 9:53 AM on December 21, 2006
Seconding "Built For Comfort." Didn't your fat uncle ever tell you he was "built for comfort, not for speed"? It's folksy, retro and pleasantly gluttonous all at once.
posted by nebulawindphone at 11:13 AM on December 21, 2006
posted by nebulawindphone at 11:13 AM on December 21, 2006
don't name the restaurant after your kid--they will both be in therapy for years.
here are some american/southern flavors and scents
iris (my fave)
magnolia
hickory
pecan
peach
apple
pepper
blue ridge
screen door
veranda
breezeway
posted by thinkingwoman at 11:25 AM on December 21, 2006
here are some american/southern flavors and scents
iris (my fave)
magnolia
hickory
pecan
peach
apple
pepper
blue ridge
screen door
veranda
breezeway
posted by thinkingwoman at 11:25 AM on December 21, 2006
Pickle
posted by exceptinsects at 11:25 AM on December 21, 2006
posted by exceptinsects at 11:25 AM on December 21, 2006
Oh, duh. Adelwolf's got it. Count me in with a vote for Natch.
posted by desuetude at 11:53 AM on December 21, 2006
posted by desuetude at 11:53 AM on December 21, 2006
I can't speak for your son, but if my parents named a restaurant after my sister and bought me a Wii I would not have complained. Claire's sounds like a great name.
posted by concrete at 12:34 PM on December 21, 2006
posted by concrete at 12:34 PM on December 21, 2006
Response by poster: Is it horrible that after almost 100 responses, we'll probably go with one of the names we thought of ourselves? Claire's or Natch seem to be the final contenders. We'll probably incorporate as Natch and pick the final restaurant name later.
Although I would definately eat at any of these:
Le Cou Rouge
Pickle
Lune
Heritage
Onionesque
Dogwood
You're all welcome to have a free dinner. I think I can safely say that because I doubt that any of you live within a hundred miles of Canton, NY. Although maybe we'll see katyggls at reunions. We're not sure if we'll get the building we want, so if we're not open in six months, the name might have to hold for a few years.
And I'm definately eating at Squat and Gobble if I ever get to S.F.
posted by saffry at 2:53 PM on December 21, 2006 [1 favorite]
Although I would definately eat at any of these:
Le Cou Rouge
Pickle
Lune
Heritage
Onionesque
Dogwood
You're all welcome to have a free dinner. I think I can safely say that because I doubt that any of you live within a hundred miles of Canton, NY. Although maybe we'll see katyggls at reunions. We're not sure if we'll get the building we want, so if we're not open in six months, the name might have to hold for a few years.
And I'm definately eating at Squat and Gobble if I ever get to S.F.
posted by saffry at 2:53 PM on December 21, 2006 [1 favorite]
"the gymn and then the office" - is what i want for my bar name.
"Where're ya going honey?"
"To the gymn and then the office..."
"Oh, Ok..."
posted by punkbitch at 4:01 PM on December 21, 2006
"Where're ya going honey?"
"To the gymn and then the office..."
"Oh, Ok..."
posted by punkbitch at 4:01 PM on December 21, 2006
or just call it punkbitch's. its the plural/posessive confusion...
also. i don't know why i spelled gym with an 'n'
posted by punkbitch at 4:06 PM on December 21, 2006
also. i don't know why i spelled gym with an 'n'
posted by punkbitch at 4:06 PM on December 21, 2006
saffry: "You're all welcome to have a free dinner. I think I can safely say that because I doubt that any of you live within a hundred miles of Canton, NY. Although maybe we'll see katyggls at reunions. "
Count on it. I go back every year to visit friends. ;-) (Don't worry, I won't actually hold you to it.)
posted by katyggls at 11:09 PM on December 21, 2006
Count on it. I go back every year to visit friends. ;-) (Don't worry, I won't actually hold you to it.)
posted by katyggls at 11:09 PM on December 21, 2006
I hate to be the 12 year old boy in the crowd...especially as a Woman of Certain Age, but "Natch" is just begging for a vulgarization. Especially in a college town.
Which...while the possibility of creating some interestingly double entendre ads is there, the benefit would probably be outweighed by a those who would rather not think about the man in the little boat while they have a shrimp cocktail.
As to "Claire" or "Claire's", I like it, but so have a lot of other restaurateurs. It's a pretty popular name for dining establishments.
posted by dejah420 at 11:29 PM on December 21, 2006
Which...while the possibility of creating some interestingly double entendre ads is there, the benefit would probably be outweighed by a those who would rather not think about the man in the little boat while they have a shrimp cocktail.
As to "Claire" or "Claire's", I like it, but so have a lot of other restaurateurs. It's a pretty popular name for dining establishments.
posted by dejah420 at 11:29 PM on December 21, 2006
Yeah, Natch makes snatch, but it's a goddamn sight better than "Yummy's," which sounds like a Flinger's knock-off.
Could always go with the band name trick: The Claire.
Onionesque is the best contender in the second round of picks.
posted by klangklangston at 4:19 AM on December 22, 2006
Could always go with the band name trick: The Claire.
Onionesque is the best contender in the second round of picks.
posted by klangklangston at 4:19 AM on December 22, 2006
I always wanted to open an asian restaraunt called Wok Like a Man.
Silly names, though amusing at first, would get old after about a month methinks.
Go with something that you aren't going to have to explain to people.
posted by Chickenjack at 11:24 AM on December 22, 2006
Silly names, though amusing at first, would get old after about a month methinks.
Go with something that you aren't going to have to explain to people.
posted by Chickenjack at 11:24 AM on December 22, 2006
This thread is closed to new comments.
There was a place where I used to live called "My friend's place" which was always clever if you ask me..."hey lets go eat at 'My Friend's Place'"
I don't have a name for you but how about thinking up one this way "If _______ were to name a restaurant, what would he/she name it?" Then insert someone you admire in the blank to get some creative juices flowing.
This has helped me out when I'm stumped before, too. Just a thought.
Good luck!
posted by Hands of Manos at 5:19 PM on December 20, 2006