Today, we’re thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in the hospitality industry with a wealth of experience in travel, tourism, and entertainment. With her deep understanding of events, expos, and conferences, Katarina brings a unique perspective on how brands like The Point Pub & Grill can thrive in new markets. In this conversation, we’ll explore the exciting expansion of The Point into Utah, diving into the significance of their new Ogden location, the vision behind the franchise, and how this move reflects broader trends in the restaurant industry.
Can you tell us why the new Ogden location is such an important milestone for The Point Pub & Grill?
Absolutely, Alex. The Ogden location at 1810 Washington Blvd. marks The Point’s first step into the Utah market, specifically the Salt Lake City area, which is a significant move for the brand’s regional growth. It’s not just about planting a flag; it’s a strategic entry into a vibrant community with a lot of potential. This opening, set for early 2027, is the first of three planned locations in the area, showcasing their ambition to build a strong presence in Utah. It’s a testament to their confidence in the concept and their commitment to expanding thoughtfully.
How does Ogden fit into the broader growth strategy for The Point Pub & Grill?
Ogden is a fantastic starting point because it’s a growing city with a tight-knit community, which aligns perfectly with The Point’s focus on being a neighborhood hub. The brand has always prioritized creating spaces where locals and visitors feel at home, and Ogden offers that kind of environment. Plus, being part of the greater Salt Lake City market gives them access to a diverse customer base. It’s a calculated choice to test the waters in a smaller, dynamic city before expanding further into the metro area.
What stands out about the new site in Ogden and the development it’s part of?
The site itself is really exciting because it’s integrated into a new mixed-use development, which means it’s not just a standalone restaurant but part of a larger community space. This kind of setting fosters foot traffic and creates a lively atmosphere. The design reflects The Point’s signature style—think comfort and quality—with features like a covered rooftop patio and riverfront views that elevate the dining experience. It’s about creating a destination, not just a place to eat, and this location nails that concept.
How do features like the rooftop patio and riverfront views enhance what guests can expect?
These elements are game-changers for guest experience. A covered rooftop patio offers a unique outdoor dining option, which is huge for a place like Ogden where people love to enjoy the scenery, especially with riverfront views. It adds a layer of relaxation and connection to the natural surroundings, making every meal feel a bit more special. It’s not just about the food; it’s about crafting memorable moments, and these design choices really support that.
The location also mentions access to bike and footpaths. How does that tie into the community focus of The Point?
That’s a brilliant touch. Having direct access to bike and footpaths connects the restaurant to the community in a very literal way. It encourages locals to stop by casually, whether they’re out for a walk or a bike ride, and it reinforces The Point’s identity as a gathering spot. It’s about being accessible and woven into the daily life of Ogden residents, which is at the heart of their brand ethos—building connections through shared spaces.
Let’s shift to the franchise owner leading this expansion. What makes Darrel Schildknecht the right fit to bring The Point to Utah?
Darrel is a perfect match for this project because he brings a wealth of experience as a restaurateur and a savvy businessman. His background in hospitality means he understands the nuances of operations, customer service, and creating a welcoming vibe. More than that, his entrepreneurial spirit aligns with The Point’s vision of growth and community impact. He’s not just opening a restaurant; he’s building a legacy in Utah, and his passion for the industry shines through in that commitment.
Darrel has mentioned that The Point’s concept feels like a natural fit for the Salt Lake region. What do you think makes it resonate so well there?
I think it comes down to the shared values between The Point and the communities in the Salt Lake area. The brand emphasizes quality, value, and a strong sense of community, which are things that resonate deeply in Utah, where family and togetherness are priorities. Their focus on being a family-friendly neighborhood spot, combined with a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, makes it a place where everyone can feel at home. It’s that universal appeal, tailored to a local context, that makes it such a great match.
With a diverse menu being a hallmark of The Point, what can guests in Ogden look forward to when it comes to food and drink?
Guests are in for a treat because The Point is known for a menu that has something for everyone. You’ve got health-conscious options, gluten-free choices, and indulgent comfort foods, so whether you’re watching your diet or craving a hearty meal, you’re covered. They also highlight local craft beverages, which adds a regional flair. I wouldn’t be surprised if they incorporate some Utah-specific flavors or partnerships with local breweries to make the menu feel even more connected to the area. It’s all about balance and variety.
Looking ahead, with two more locations planned in the Salt Lake City area, can you share any insights on what’s next for The Point in Utah?
While exact details are still under wraps, I can say that the team is eyeing spots across the Salt Lake City metro area to complement the Ogden location. The goal is to create a network of restaurants that each have their own local flavor while staying true to The Point’s core identity. Construction for Ogden starts in 2026, with the opening in early 2027, and I expect the timeline for the other two will follow closely as they finalize sites. It’s about strategic growth—ensuring each location builds on the success of the last.
What’s your forecast for the future of restaurant expansions like The Point’s move into new markets like Utah?
I’m really optimistic about the future of expansions for brands like The Point. The restaurant industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on community-driven concepts that prioritize local engagement over cookie-cutter models. Markets like Utah, with their blend of urban growth and small-town charm, are ripe for brands that can adapt and connect on a personal level. I think we’ll see more franchises focusing on multi-unit developments in under-tapped regions, balancing scalability with authenticity. The Point’s approach—thoughtful site selection, strong franchisee partnerships, and a focus on guest experience—sets a great example for where the industry is headed.
