FAQ on Ryan Hidinger and Staplehouse and an Inspiring Documentary

 

What's going on with Chef Ryan Hidinger and wife Jen and their dream restaurant Staplehouse? And what's this new non-profit called The Giving Kitchen? Flashback. At the first of this year, Ryan was diagnosed with stage IV gallbladder cancer. All of the love and support from Team Hidi friends, family, the community and the Cancer Treatment Center has changed their perspective on life. Time out. Watch this short documentary then read on. The Hidingers are designing Staplehouse to be a purpose-driven restaurant, serving hope and help as a by-product of the casual fine-dining experience. Along with several friends, Ryan and Jen have started The Giving Kitchen, a 501(c)(3) initiative that will support the Atlanta restaurant community and give a hand to industry members impacted by medical or other unanticipated hardships. A historic two-story brick building in the heart of the Old Fourth Ward will house Staplehouse on street level while The Giving Kitchen office and a private dining space will occupy the top floor. Anyone can share the dream by contributing to the cause and becoming a recognized "founding member" with a donation. Give what you can, whether it's $1, $100 or more. Good stewards that they are, the team has posted their budget breakdown online, and it's an eye-opener for anyone wondering what it takes to start up a restaurant. So far, with about a month left in their capital campaign, about $45,000 out of the $651,035 needed has been raised. Donate and you could be recognized with a name posting, a bar stool marked with your name, or the pure, intrinsic satisfaction of sharing a little bit to help a lot.