Meet Izzy Schachner of 56 Restaurant Group

Today we’d like to introduce you to Izzy Schachner.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Izzy began his career operating a mobile catering business for film productions throughout Ohio. On set, the 150-person crew operated like a family, collaborating across the same projects and developing strong professional bonds. This shared dedication was forged through demanding conditions, from harsh winters and heavy rain to intense summer heat. The primary mission was to deliver fresh, high-quality culinary experiences on schedule, regardless of the location—whether on rooftops, in parking garages, on beaches, or along airport runways. Over a decade of service, the team never declined a challenge, consistently finding solutions to complex logistical demands. This rigorous environment shaped the company’s adaptable mindset and operational approach. In 2012, Izzy partnered with local restaurateur Jay Leitson, and together they managed both restaurant operations and film catering. By 2022, following significant growth in their traditional catering and hospitality portfolios, they transitioned away from active film sets to focus on their brick-and-mortar establishments, while reserving the mobile unit for special events. Today, they own five restaurant locations and a premier catering enterprise.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Operating in the hospitality industry means constantly navigating market fluctuations, from the rising cost of ingredients to securing the goods necessary to maintain high standards of quality. At the same time, it requires a deep understanding that guests are managing those very same economic pressures. The COVID-19 pandemic was an exceptionally challenging period, but the team quickly adapted its business model to keep doors open. Because of this resilience, the company successfully transitioned through the crisis intact, even as many contemporaries in the industry unfortunately faced closure.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about 56 Restaurant Group?
We are constantly asked: “What is the significance of 56?” In the 1990s, Izzy’s partner, Jay Leitson, was working at his family’s restaurant, The Pewter Mug. Wanting to introduce a fresh concept where salads took center stage, Jay developed every creative combination he could imagine. The final count was 56 distinct salads, with the famous Pewter Mug salad as the cornerstone—an item that remains our best-seller today.This history shapes our tagline at 56 Restaurant Group: “True to our roots.” This is more than a slogan; it is an organizational mindset. Being true to our roots means we are grounded in genuine hospitality, leveraging decades of culinary expertise to build memorable dining experiences. We rely on fresh, minimally processed ingredients to craft approachable, healthy meals—featuring an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan options—while rotating our menus seasonally to allow our chefs to innovate.Our roots also extend to our culture and community. We cultivate an inviting, dinner-party atmosphere, support our staff on their career journeys, and actively give back through annual community events. We have grown significantly from our beginnings, but our core philosophy never wavers: always fresh, made with love, and hospitality first.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
We are avid readers of everything concerning our industry, keeping a close eye on both global economic trends and the stories of local restaurateurs. The hospitality landscape changes quickly, and staying informed is exactly what gives us the foresight to adapt. Understanding current events helps us see where the market is moving, ensuring we know precisely how and when to pivot our business model to meet the moment without ever compromising our core values.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.56restaurantgroup.com